|
|
|
You can get e-magazine links on WhatsApp. Click here
|
|
|
|
|
|
Santript secures Rs 2 lakh NewGen IEDC grant via Marwadi University’s centre
|
|
Wednesday, 24 September, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
|
|
Nandita Vijayasimha, Bengaluru
|
Santript Aahar LLP, a start-up focused on innovative food solutions, has been awarded a Rs 2 lakh grant under the New Generation Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Centre (NewGen IEDC) scheme. The grant was facilitated through Marwadi University’s Innovation and Incubation Centre, which continues to support and nurture entrepreneurial talent across diverse sectors.
Ruchita Jethva, CEO, Santript Aahar LLP, transformed her concept into a scalable algae-based food innovation following her participation in the Gujarat Government’s Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Hackathon.
A microbiology postgraduate from Marwadi University, Rajkot, Jethva has filed two patents and registered a trademarked logo. It was during an expert session at Marwadi University that she was introduced to the process of patenting innovative food products. By then, she had already developed a spirulina-based drink and decided to protect it through intellectual property rights under the mentorship of Dr. Viral Kumar. One patent was for the Spirulina Mint Drink Premi, which is a nutrient-rich, shelf-stable functional beverage. The second is for an Effervescent Tablet with Vitamin B12, which is a healthy, functional alternative to carbonated soft drinks.
"Our Santript Aahar logo is a registered trademark, symbolising trust in nutritious and innovative foods. We are currently showcasing our products under various government initiatives,” said Jethva in an email to FnB News.
“In this regard, we also met with the Rajkot District Development Officer (DDO) and the District Collector to explore the inclusion of our products in Anganwadi and mid-day meal programmes," she added.
The company presented spirulina-based drinks, cookies, and snacks made from wholesome ingredients. "Using case studies on spirulina’s role in reducing malnutrition, we demonstrated how our products matched/exceeded the nutritional profile of RUTF (Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food) while being affordable and easily scalable," she said.
Santript Aahar LLP was awarded the Silver Award for Innovative Food at the Maker Fest Vadodara, where the company engaged with over 2,000 visitors and more than 600 of whom sampled its products. "The key feedback we received was about the pleasant taste and texture of our products, with no unpleasant aftertaste," said the Santript Aahar CEO, adding, "Many were surprised to learn that algae could be such a tasty and edible ingredient. We also received recognition for the high nutritional value of our offerings."
The company further made an impact at Techstars Startup Weekend, where the team created a complete business pitch within 54 hours, received investor feedback, and emerged as the 1st Runner-up. At the SmartIDEAthon hosted by GITAM Bengaluru, Santript Aahar refined its social impact pitch focused on underserved communities, earning a place among the top 32 teams. Additionally, at the World STEM & Robotics Olympiad Startup Summit, Santript Aahar was honoured with the award for Best Food Innovation for its sustainable, algae-based nutrition solution.
"Going forward, we aim to position our algae-based, protein-rich foods as a solution to combat undernutrition by providing complete amino acids, essential vitamins, and minerals. At the same time, our products help prevent obesity through low-fat, high-fibre formulations," said Jethva.
The company has developed three flagship products designed to cater to both rural beneficiaries and urban health-conscious consumers. These are Spijo Bites Snacks, which are Jowar puffs coated with spirulina - nutrient-dense, affordable and tasty. The Spirulina Drink Premix is an instant, flavoured hydration mix that boosts immunity and energy. The Effervescent Tablet is an on-the-go nutraceutical for daily wellness. "We see that since all our products combine taste, nutrition, and affordability, positioning Santript Aahar as a strong contender in India’s functional food sector," said Jethva.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|