1 year ago
Cumin Drinks Challenge Colas in India's Beverage Market
Imagine a market where people are getting tired of regular sugary drinks.
Now, drinks flavored with cumin, a common spice in Indian kitchens, are becoming popular!
Big companies like Coca-Cola and smaller brands are making these drinks to give people more choices.
The market for these drinks is growing, and the companies are trying to make more and sell them everywhere.
The main problem they have is that the government taxes these drinks a lot, which makes it harder to sell them cheaply.
However, they are committed to keeping the drink affordable so that more people will buy it.
Indian beverage market sees rise in cumin-infused drinks, competing with colas.
Companies like Coca-Cola, DS Group, and Parle Agro offer jeera-based drinks; PepsiCo is considering entry.
The unorganized jeera beverage market is estimated at ₹1,500–2,000 crore, with potential for growth.
Homegrown brands such as Jeeru and Bindu have established a niche, with Lahori Zeera planning expansion.
The ₹10 price point poses a challenge due to high taxes on sugary, aerated drinks, but is important for volume.
- Who
- Beverage companies, including Coca-Cola, Parle Agro, and Lahori Zeera, along with Indian consumers.
- What
- Cumin-infused drinks are becoming popular alternatives to colas in India.
- Where
- India
- When
- The trend is current, with companies scaling up production and planning expansion.
- Why
- Consumers are seeking alternatives to colas, driving demand for ethnic flavors and perceived digestive benefits of jeera.
Challenge - High Taxation
Opportunity - Growth Potential
Price Point vs. Taxation
Challenge - High Taxation
High taxes (28% GST + 12% cess) on sugary, aerated drinks make it hard to maintain a low price point.
Opportunity - Growth Potential
₹10 price point is important for driving volumes and mass market penetration. Companies are trying to work around the taxation.
Key facts
- Estimated Unorganized Market
- ₹1,500–2,000 crore
- Mintel Research (2023)
- 45% Indians want ethnic Indian flavors
- Lahori Zeera Funding
- ₹200 crore
- Current Price Point
- ₹10
- Tax on Aerated Drinks
- 28% GST + 12% cess





