Bliss Body, A brand specializing in functional drinks designed to transform nutrition by blending innovation with nature’s finest ingredients. As India’s first millet-fermented functional beverage, Bliss Body offers a unique, sugar-free formula that delivers a naturally sweet taste, catering to a global audience that values quality and natural wellness. The company’s mission is to provide delicious, nutrient-rich solutions that not only taste similar to traditional drinks but also deliver a wealth of health benefits, including enhanced gut health, diabetes management, stress relief, and reduced bloating. Bliss Body is leading the way in functional beverages that combine the power of ancient ingredients with modern wellness needs.
Mr. Sailesh Ganduri, Founder – Famnutra & Bliss Body Functional Beverages. The journey from a young boy in a remote village to a pioneering entrepreneur in sustainable nutrition has been defined by resilience, purpose, and an unyielding commitment to health innovation. His mission with Famnutra and Bliss Body began with a vision to create functional drinks that promote well-being, focusing on gut health and diabetic care. Famnutra and Bliss Body are India’s first millet-fermented beverages, crafted without added sugars but designed to taste sweet—an innovation that merges traditional ingredients with modern health needs.
More details are gathered as our correspondent Haider Naqvi gets in conversation with, Founder & Managing director & CEO at Sailesh Ganduri.
1. Tell us briefly about your company
Famnutra Millet Foods Pvt. Ltd. was incorporated in 2019 and is the first company to launch a sugar-free, millet-based fermented drink. This product was developed with the support of a Government BIRAC BIG grant of ₹0.5 crore. The company holds a valid DPIIT certificate and is registered under MSME Udyog Aadhar. Famnutra focuses on innovation in health and nutrition, as reflected in the development of this millet-based fermented drink. It caters to the needs of discerning consumers, ranging from children to health-conscious individuals seeking healthier alternatives to sugary beverages. Not only is it diabetic-friendly, but it also promotes gut health and aids digestion, without compromising on taste. The drink is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and essential vitamins such as B3 and B6, along with carbohydrates and proteins. Our mission is to provide functional and nutritious beverages that support a healthier lifestyle.
2. How is the Bliss Body functional drink experiment different from other players?
Bliss Body stands out for its unique formulation, emphasizing health and guilt-free indulgence. Unlike traditional soft drinks loaded with sugar, Bliss Body contains no added sugars and offers notable health benefits, including improved digestion, enhanced mood, and better gut health. This makes it an ideal choice for people of all ages, from children to older adults. By focusing on natural ingredients and scientifically-backed health benefits, Bliss Body is designed to fill a gap in the market for functional beverages that are both delicious and beneficial to overall well-being.
3. Which are your important product categories?
Our primary product is a millet-based fermented beverage available in three flavors: pineapple, mango, and orange. We plan to expand our range with additional flavors soon to cater to varying consumer preferences. Other innovative products, such as prebiotics and probiotics, are currently in the development pipeline. Additionally, we are working on a ready-to-mix-and-drink healthy millet fermented powder that can be conveniently carried and consumed, making it suitable for busy lifestyles and health-conscious individuals looking for on-the-go options.
4. Role of functional drinks in the beverage sector
The popularity of functional drinks is growing worldwide as more people seek healthier and sustainable options. These beverages are increasingly seen as an essential part of modern dietary habits, providing targeted health benefits such as improved digestion, enhanced immunity, and better energy levels. The future of functional beverages looks promising, driven by innovations aimed at enhancing health and nutrition. As consumers become more informed about the ingredients and benefits of these products, the demand for functional drinks is expected to rise significantly.
5. How big is Famnutra Millet Foods today?
As a startup, we have made significant strides in a short period. Currently, we primarily focus on distribution within Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, leveraging local markets to build a strong foundation. Our products are also available through online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms, which allows us to reach a wider audience. We aim to expand our footprint gradually while maintaining our commitment to quality and innovation.
6. What are the challenges the beverage industry is facing due to inflation in the market? What are you doing to cope with them?
Inflation has impacted consumer spending, leading to shifts in purchasing behavior and increased price sensitivity. To address these challenges, we are adopting a lean approach to operations by optimizing production processes and minimizing wastage. We are also focusing on sourcing cost-effective raw materials without compromising on quality. These measures help us reduce costs, maintain competitive pricing, and increase revenue margins, ensuring that our products remain accessible to a broad consumer base.
7. How is a startup competing with established brands while offering health and flavors at an affordable price?
We recognize that affordability is crucial for gaining consumer trust and building a loyal customer base. To achieve this, we are launching our products in spout pouches, which not only reduce packaging costs but also encourage trials by making the price point accessible to the average consumer. Additionally, our commitment to health and flavor ensures that we offer a superior product experience, setting us apart from established brands that may lack the same innovative focus.
8. Tell us about the organic range of products you offer
Currently, we do not offer any organic products. However, our focus remains on providing healthy and nutritious options that align with our mission of promoting wellness. While we do not operate in the organic segment, we ensure that our products are made from high-quality ingredients and are free from harmful additives, providing a wholesome alternative to conventional beverages.
9. How would you describe the current scenario of the functional beverage industry in India?
The functional beverage industry in India is still in its nascent stage, presenting significant opportunities for growth and innovation. As consumers become more health-conscious and aware of the benefits of functional drinks, the demand for such products is expected to rise rapidly. The industry is poised for exponential growth, driven by changing lifestyles, increased urbanization, and a growing preference for convenient and health-focused options. With the right strategies and continuous innovation, companies in this sector can capitalize on the untapped potential of the Indian market.
10. Many popular companies are foraying into the functional drinks sector. Do you think there is tough competition ahead?
Competition is inevitable in a growing market, but our core value lies in innovation. By continuously developing new and unique products, we aim to differentiate ourselves from competitors. We focus on creating beverages that offer tangible health benefits, appealing to a niche audience that prioritizes wellness. Our ability to innovate and adapt to consumer needs ensures that we remain competitive and relevant in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
11. By foraying into new products, are you trying to re-invent the Bliss Body brand?
No, we are not reinventing the Bliss Body brand. All our products align with our overarching goal of promoting health and sustainability. Every new product we introduce is designed to complement and enhance our existing range, reinforcing our commitment to providing functional beverages that cater to diverse consumer needs. Our focus remains on delivering innovative, health-centric solutions under the Bliss Body umbrella.
12. So, what’s the secret of your success?
The secret to our success lies in our unwavering passion and commitment to innovation. We are driven by a desire to create products that not only meet but exceed consumer expectations. Our dedication to research, development, and understanding consumer preferences has enabled us to craft unique beverages that stand out in the market. By staying true to our mission and values, we continue to build a brand that resonates with health-conscious consumers.
