Goa-based start-up Wakao Foods exports India's biggest plant-based meat shipment to the US

June 29th, 2023

More and more people today are eager to try and incorporate plant-based meat into their meals as the quest for the tastiest vegan products spans the globe. People add it to their diets as a source of protein or eat it when they miss meat because they are vegetarian, or on days when they are unable to eat it for other reasons. The elements derived from these plant-based sources give off a feel that is truly similar to that of meat. And among the leading list of home-grown brands, Wakao Foods, a start-up with headquarters in Goa, sells ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook plant-based goods. Their signature item, jackfruit meat, appeals to the expanding vegan movement. 

And now, the company gladly announced the arrival of their 13-ton largest-ever consignment of renowned jackfruit products. By creating excellent culinary experiences with an emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices, they demonstrate their commitment to global consumers by entering the US market. Read on to know more about the exciting move:

The rising demand for savory plant-based food

The entry of Wakao Foods into the US market is in line with the rising desire for savory, plant-based food options. The brand is prepared to satisfy the discriminating palates of food fans in New York and beyond thanks to its proficiency in producing delicious plant-based items. 13 tonnes of Wakao Foods' jackfruit products being exported is a significant accomplishment for the company. Their commitment to premium ingredients and creative plant-based solutions has won them praise on a global scale. 

Founder and CEO of Wakao Foods shares his pearls of wisdom

The business claimed that during the past eight months, it has worked to understand the preferences of the US market and create items that are particularly suited to it. On June 22, a ceremonial flag-off took place at Kochi Port. Sairaj Dhond, the Founder and CEO of Wakao Foods explicates, "We are excited to expand our reach to the United States with India’s biggest plant-based food consignment and look at exploring the dynamic food scene in the USA. Our popular products have gained popularity in India and other markets. We are confident that the vibrant food enthusiasts in the USA will appreciate the authentic flavors and quality of our jackfruit products. This expansion is a significant step for Wakao Foods, as we aim to establish a strong presence in the United States."

Details of the exciting plant-based products on offer

The first of two containers being shipped to the USA is this one. IAS Rajesh Agrawal, the Chairman of APEDA, and other dignitaries attended the flag-off event in Kochi Port. It is the first step in Wakao Foods' export journey to the US. The cargo contains a variety of delectable goods that Wakao Foods painstakingly created. The original flavours of Teriyaki Jack, American Herbs sausages, Hot & Spicy sausages, Continental Jack burger patties, BBQ Jack, Indian Gravy, and Raw Jack are now available to consumers in the United States. Each item demonstrates Wakao Foods' dedication to excellence and guarantees that consumers receive the best plant-based options available.

Dignitaries share their thoughts on the move

Rajesh Agrawal, IAS and chairman, Agricultural and Processed Foods Export Development Authority (Apeda) said, "India's growing market for plant-based meat alternatives presents an opportunity to leverage the country's crop biodiversity. Companies like Wakao Foods are elevating crops like jackfruit to create sustainable alternatives. This benefits farmers and addresses protein-related malnutrition while diversifying the protein supply and increasing incomes for jackfruit growers.”

VK Vidyarthi, General Manager of APEDA, said, "Indigenous crops have great potential to transform India's agriculture, benefiting farmers, reducing waste, and supporting climate goals. We urge companies to adopt these crops for exports, farmer opportunities, and sustainability." 

Divya Saravana, Corporate Engagement Specialist at GFI India said, "This shipment highlights the demand for product innovation and ingredient diversification in established markets like the USA. We applaud Wakao Foods for bringing Indian-grown jackfruit into the global plant-based meat industry."

Even though Wakao Foods only began operations in 2020, right before the epidemic, company has recorded 25% monthly growth. The brand is a bootstrapped business that has quickly expanded to foreign markets, which is a significant accomplishment in and of itself!