The Disruptors – Wakao Foods

India has seen a huge growth in people preferring vegan options based on plants rather than dead flesh of animals and this is where our today’s post begins India has the largest population of vegetarians which is the nearest to vegan and India is seeing a surge in the amount of people moving there lifestyles to vegan way of eating as in concurrence with the global growth. Here is where today’s Goa based start-up has made it to our ‘the disruptors’ series Wakao Foods and its founder Sairaj Dhond a criminal lawyer turned serial entrepreneur.

Which sector got disrupted?

The FMCG and specifically the vegan products production and the global growth in this sector is on the rise. Certain brands like today’s cover Wakao Foods have come forward to take the lead. According to a report, the vegan food and drink market can rise by 1000% as mentioned by TOI and predicted by Barclays analysts.

Wakao foods has come up with meat plant-based alternatives vegan products which will not only support the growing demand but also will support the indigenous farming practices as per the brands vision. It is India’s first food brand to make vegan products from jackfruit aka Superfood rising all over the world as the choice for vegans and athletes.

The company wants to produce sustainable products for health and humanity while supporting cruelty-free food and a vegan way of life. Bringing top-quality natural produce to the plates. With a large number of trusted brand partners.

Personal takes of the Founder:

In a talk with us the founder, Sairaj Dhond left a few comments for our readers to bring you a closer look on the company and its progressive vision.

Jigar : Why did you start the company?

Sairaj : “When I left criminal litigation after finding my true calling in entrepreneurship it was an overnight decision to switch careers. I joined our family business in 2014. After I gained some experience, I started my own venture, but it came to a standstill during the lockdown. Then thought of exploring the food business, and sustainable food was always a strong contender during brainstorming sessions. Jackfruit, a superfood which grows in our backyard and often goes unnoticed, is quite popular in some states of India. It is considered to be a superfood because of its many nutritional benefits. It is also a good source of fibre, vitamin C, calcium and magnesium. Its meat-like texture and versatility make it the perfect inclusive choice for all dietary preferences. We want to get rid of the common misconception that vegan or healthy food doesn’t taste good. Jackfruit meat can be a part of your lip-smacking recipe and one does not have to compromise on the taste. Also, the meat-like texture is all to go for.

The delicious range of the Wakao Jack Meat is curated to suit different tastes, from meat lovers to fitness enthusiasts there is something for everyone. The Ready to Cook varieties include the Raw Jack, that can be used as a meat substitute in any recipe for a decadent vegan alternative and the Jack Burger Patty, that makes cheat meals healthy in a never seen before avtaar. The Ready to Eat varieties include the Teriyaki Jack, that is perfectly paired with a slider or as a Frankie to enhance its flavors, the BBQ Jack, that makes for a mouth-watering filling for wraps and the Butter Jack, that is the go-to choice to whip up a quick meal along with a side of some steaming rice.”

Jigar : What is your brand’s mission?

Sairaj : “Wakao Foods is a Goa-based sustainable food brand that offers handpicked natural products with a vision of benefiting the planet. The company stands for creating a better tomorrow – one where humanity thrives, with products that are curated from ethically grown and sourced produce that is then hygienically processed and packaged.”

The prospective Sairaj has presented establishes the broader humanitarian purpose of the brand. That proves he is building a brand which is disrupting the vegan food market.

Towards the end I would like our readers to actually support visions and concepts like that of Sairaj and his team at Wakao foods who are trying to bring flavorful vegan meat made from jackfruit to your table which is not only healthier but also cruelty free and sustainable.

P.S : We at concepts and careers are committed to work towards bringing value to our readers. This is our take on a company working in a fast growing world and industry. Feel free to leave your feedback and comments below. Suggestions for the disruptors in your mind leave them in comments or DM us on social media.