Innovation

Wakao foods, a business that is more than just a name; it is a testament to innovation and culinary ingenuity. Sairaj Dhond, the visionary behind Wakao Food along with Sairaj Kalangutkar and many more, embarked on a mission to transform the way people perceived jackfruit, turning it from a commonly overlooked fruit into a versatile and sought-after superfood.

Wakao Food's journey began with a revelation triggered by a video article from the insightful Palki Sharma Upadhyay. The piece not only labeled jackfruit as a superfood but also sparked a curiosity in Sairaj's mind about why the West held such a deep appreciation for this fruit. In India, jackfruit was often left to ripen and rot away. For generations, these prickly spheres had graced Indian tables, simmered in curries, and sweetened desserts. But Sairaj saw something more, a hidden potential beyond chutney and gravies.

Determined to unlock the hidden potential of jackfruit, Sairaj delved into extensive research on its nutritional value and versatility. What he discovered transformed his perspective entirely. It wasn't just a jackfruit; it was a jackpot waiting to be explored.

Fueled by a commitment to excellence, Sairaj envisioned creating products that not only stood out in taste and quality but also contributed positively to the planet. The philosophy was clear: bring something good, new, and different to the world. It was about crafting products that were not only good for consumers but also great for the environment.

Identifying a significant gap in the market, Sairaj saw immense potential in introducing innovative jackfruit-based products to the Indian audience. The goal was nothing short of making Wakao Food one of the most beloved brands in the country. It wasn't just a business venture; it was a mission to give society a healthier alternative with a lower carbon footprint.

Wakao Food emerged as a beacon of change, breathing new life into the once-forgotten jackfruit. No longer just a fruit left to wither away, jackfruit became the star ingredient in Wakao Food's creations – from burger patties and sausages to meat substitutes. The brand not only provided a fresh perspective on jackfruit but also paved the way for its recognition as a nutritional powerhouse.

In the end, Sairaj's journey with Wakao Food isn't just about building a successful business; it is about rewriting the narrative around jackfruit and offering people a delicious and healthy option that leaves a positive impact on both their well-being and the planet.

Inspiration

Sairaj Dhond, the founder of Wakao Foods, has successfully built a thriving business centered around the innovative use of jackfruit to create sustainable plant-based meat alternatives. Motivated by the nutritional value of jackfruit and its potential to combat food waste, Dhond seized the opportunity to make a positive impact on both the environment and local farmers.

In his journey of bringing up a sustainable business, he encountered an article labeling jackfruit as the "next superfood", which was an opportunity he couldn’t miss. Recognizing the substantial waste of jackfruit in India, he aimed to address this issue while contributing to his country and state. Dhond's vision extended beyond crafting a delicious product; he envisioned Wakao Foods as a force for good, prioritizing farmer empowerment and environmental responsibility.

Wakao Foods practices what Dhond preaches about clarity of purpose. They directly source jackfruit from farmers, ensuring fair compensation and a stable market. Additionally, the company minimizes its carbon footprint through efficient logistics and employs recycled and recyclable packaging.

Dhond's leadership emphasizes purpose and continual improvement. He motivates his team to innovate consistently, with a focus on adding value to consumers, farmers, and the planet. Dhond's advice is to expect the unexpected and remain committed to continuous value addition. Under his guidance, Wakao Foods is not limited to one aspect but constantly evolves.

Sairaj Dhond's leadership is characterized by a profound understanding of the interplay between business, the environment, and the community he is a part of. With a clear understanding in this area, he knows what requirements are to be made and how to achieve success in them. His story underscores the transformative potential of how innovation, his purpose, and a great dedication plays a role towards a positive global impact. While Wakao Foods' journey continues, Dhond's leadership ensures it remains a source of inspiration and a driving force in shaping the future of sustainable food.

Overall impact

The innovative utilization of jackfruit by Wakao Foods has had a major and immediate effect on the dynamics of the food sector, especially in India. The business has successfully tackled the widespread issue of jackfruit waste in the short term by transforming the once-overlooked and wasted fruit into a variety of plant-based goods. Compared to the past, over 75% of the 1.4 million tonnes of jackfruit that India uses each year, this strategy change has demonstrably reduced the environmental effects of food waste. The strategy taken by Wakao Foods not only lessens this wasteful behavior but also offers farmers a viable and profitable option.

In the long run, Wakao Foods has been instrumental in driving the plant-based food industry ahead by coordinating with worldwide trends that support dietary choices that are more sustainable and healthier. The company's steadfast dedication to cruelty-free business processes, ethical procurement, and the advancement of a vegan lifestyle has connected with a growing segment of the consumer base that favors healthier and more environmentally friendly food choices. This success may be seen in the company's contribution to a larger movement that supports plant-based and sustainable living, in addition to its prominent position in the market.

The growing market presence of Wakao Foods, the increase in demand for plant-based substitutes, and the favorable reviews received by customers are all tangible indicators of this impact. Additionally, the company's ongoing initiatives that benefit farmers and develop the jackfruit farming ecosystem highlight its dedication to sustainability over the long haul. In addition to combating an urgent environmental issue, Wakao Foods has influenced consumer behavior while encouraging a healthier, more sustainable future by contributing as a catalyst for positive innovation in the food sector.

Business benefit

Wakao Foods has a primary focus on incorporating Jackfruit into their products, reaping numerous benefits for the business, environment, society, and consumers:

• Utilizing Jackfruit ensures the optimal utilization of this highly nutritious fruit, leaving no part unused and maximizing its nutritional value.
• Planting Seeds of Prosperity, Wakao Foods cultivates not just jackfruit, but also thriving communities. Their "Friends of Farmers" initiative, a 1% sales pledge to the farming ecosystem, blossoms into real opportunities for local residents, enriching their lives alongside the harvest.
• Wakao Foods believes in employee happiness as the secret to its success. With a vibrant culture, top-notch training, and a dedication to diversity, they empower their people to flourish. This translates into engaged employees who go the extra mile, resulting in delighted customers and a thriving business.
• The company actively promotes jackfruit farming, encouraging farmers to cultivate it, thereby positively impacting production, and ensuring an abundant supply for consumers.
• In just ten months, Wakao Foods has become a plant-based powerhouse, captivating 10,000 customers across India and expanding internationally to Dubai, Norway, and the Netherlands. Their success hinges on jackfruit's versatility, commitment to sustainability, and a product range free from preservatives. With a focus on innovation, Wakao is poised to revolutionize plant-based dining globally, anticipating a future where the world embraces the goodness of jackfruit.
• As part of their commitment, Wakao Foods minimizes waste by maximizing Jackfruit use in their products, championing sustainable practices and resource efficiency.

Social and environmental benefit

Wakao Foods stands at the forefront of India's evolving dietary landscape, driving the surge in plant-based eating amid heightened health consciousness. Harnessing the nutritional potency of jackfruit, the company introduces culinary marvels like Teriyaki Jack and Jack Burger Patty, enriching meals with essential fiber, antioxidants, and iron. Beyond serving as delectable meat substitutes, Wakao actively advocates for informed, health-centric choices. The commitment extends to sustainability, with the brand championing local sourcing and indigenous practices, minimizing its ecological impact. Operating within stringent safety and environmental standards, Wakao Foods allocates 1% of its revenue to bolster Indian farmers, establishing a virtuous cycle that strengthens local food systems. In seamlessly blending health benefits with eco-friendly practices, Wakao Foods not only pioneers innovative cuisine but also charts a course toward a more resilient and sustainable future for India's dynamic food culture.

Interview

Sairaj Dhond, Founder, CEO