MS Dhoni backs Shaka Harry, a plant-based protein business
Shaka Harry, whose name is derived from the word "Shakahari," which means vegetarians, already has 30,000 customers and is available in 10 locations.
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A few months after the plant protein business Shaka Harry acquired $2 million in initial funding from Better Bite Ventures, Blue Horizon, and Panthera Peak Ventures, the former captain of the Indian cricket team MS Dhoni made an investment in the company.
With 30,000 customers and availability in 10 cities on Swiggy, Bigbasket, and other online platforms, Shaka Harry—whose name is derived from the word "Shakahari," which means vegetarians—has already built up a solid consumer base. The firm also intends to begin growing offline and to enter European markets in the upcoming months.
In the upcoming few months, the firm anticipates double its customer base.
"Our R&D team is often adding new products to our grab-and-go, world-cuisine, celebrations, and everyday staples ranges. Our plant-based dairy brand is now undergoing a consumer testing. Our client reach and new product launches will multiply with this funding and our collaboration with Dhoni, according to Shaka Harry co-founder Sandeep Devgan.
MS Dhoni commented on the collaboration by saying, "I love everything chicken, but I am looking at a more balanced diet more and more. With Shaka Harry's goods, which come in a variety and offer a healthy alternative to classic meat recipes, it is much simpler. Current protein sources can't keep up with a growing population. We can now switch to more intelligent protein substitutes without sacrificing flavour or texture.
According to study conducted by the Good Food Institute India and Deloitte, the Indian smart protein market could reach a size of approximately Rs 19,000 crore by 2030, including a sizeable export market, with the correct investments in labour, R&D, manufacturing, and distribution.
With a number of celebrities supporting it, this area has been growing popularity. With its new offering dubbed UnCrave, online butcher Licious has also entered the market. The other startups in this field include, among others, Greenest, Evo Foods, and Mister Veg.
The market for plant-based meat in India is anticipated to increase to $400 million over the next two years, according to the Plant-Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA). In India, there are more than 200 businesses producing plant-based meat, dairy, eggs, and ingredients.