The controversies surrounding the Indian food market have raised serious questions about processed consumables. Capitalising on this situation, Sanket Kandade came up with Organic Tiffin Services, a start-up that claims to deliver 100% organic meals. “Our aim is to provide chemical- and pesticide-free meals.” The start-up was set up with an initial investment of ₹50,000. It receives around 50-60 orders per month and is only restricted to lunch for now. “We are looking at providing a healthy meal mainly to office-goers,” adds Kandade.

He and his wife, Jaya, came up with the idea of the start-up after acquiring enough experience in the hotel management industry. Kandade used to work as a chef in The Oberoi while his wife handled the front office operations at the same hotel chain. “I love to cook. Jaya manages the finances and marketing aspects really well. We share the stories behind every meal,” says Kandade, who has two more employees on his payroll. 

The duo has tied up with the farmers’ network in Mumbai, which supplies organic vegetables and fruits to them. “Even the spices we use are purely organic in nature. There are many that I prepare myself,” he adds. With an average cost of ₹75 per serving, there are different types of meals offered — full meal, mini meal, big meal, Jain meal and diet meal. “We have a high-cost menu for one week and a medium-cost one the next.” Also, the company has tied up with the dabbawala association to ensure efficient and timely meal services for a ₹500 delivery charge. The couple provides tiffin services only between Churchgate and Borivli in Mumbai and plans to expand to other cities in future.