In a world where convenience is usually preferred over nutrition, NutriMillets Foods Private Limited, a women-founded and DPIIT-accredited startup from the state of Maharashtra, is working to redefine conventional Indian nutrition for contemporary lifestyles. With an expanding list of millet-based instant meals, roasted snacks, and functional drinks (in development), NutriMillets is reviving the knowledge of ancient grains and making them convenient, affordable, and tasty to eat daily.
A Founder Steeped in Tradition and Perseverance
The journey of NutriMillets starts with Mrs. Vidya Gunturkar–Joshi, the founder and driving force of the business. Hailing from a farmer family, Vidya had millets as a constant feature on her plate, well before the world even started to rediscover their goodness. This exposure at home instilled in her a profound respect for these nutrient-dense grains.
As a first-generation business owner in both her family and that of her in-laws’, Vidya has had a path of perseverance and self-sufficiency. She began working at the tender age of 17, eager to provide for her loved ones and forge her own way. After trying her hand at several different careers from teaching and coaching to insurance and sales of jewelry Vidya came to appreciate that real fulfillment came from creating something of substance that combined her heritage, values, and entrepreneurial drive.
Guided by professionals, she ventured into her first proprietary business, Millets Treat Health Foods, under NutriMillets. In 2022, she expanded her vision with the founding of NutriMillets Foods Pvt. Ltd., subsequently recognized by DPIIT, as a sign of national recognition of the presence of the brand.
The Brand Story: Food with Purpose
NutriMillets is not any ordinary food company. It illustrates Vidya’s passion for social and environmental responsibility. Headquartered in a Tier-2 city, though small in terms of size, the startup has a global vision. By shifting focus to India’s ancient superfood, millets the company hopes to make healthy nutrition not only easy but also eco-friendly.
Millets, also referred to as “nutri-cereals,” are high in proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They have been grown in India for more than 5,000 years and find mentions in ancient documents such as the Yajurveda, touching upon their contribution to feeding generations. Species like foxtail, barnyard, and finger millet are still deeply rooted in the country’s agriculture. NutriMillets is bringing this heritage back in a new form, making products that are both modern and traditional.
Products with a Purpose
NutriMillets provides instant mixes and roasted snacks that are wholesome, guilt-free, and clean-label. The company is also creating functional drinks, injecting innovation into India’s health food market. All the products are created to be delicious and nutritious, targeting today’s busy consumers who don’t want to trade off wellness.
But above all products, NutriMillets has a bigger mission to empower women and bring back millets to daily plates. The startup is seriously looking into partnering with NGOs and companies to make millet-based foods available at discounted prices for nutrition initiatives, particularly for underprivileged communities.
Recognition & Milestones
In just a short span, NutriMillets has emerged as a strong voice in the health food ecosystem, backed by multiple recognitions:
- 2025: Winner – Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Women Startup Award
- 2024
Shortlisted among the Top 20 Startups by Startup India & Tetra Pak
Participant – BRICS Women Startup Contest
Named in the Top 10 Gluten-Free Food Startups by Industry Outlook Magazine
- 2023: Winner – National Entrepreneur Award by the Odisha Corporate Foundation
These accolades underline the company’s credibility, innovation, and growth potential.
Looking Ahead
For Vidya Joshi, NutriMillets is not merely a company, it’s a passion to make healthier, happier communities and pay tribute to India’s rich agricultural tradition. By synergizing sustainability, health, and empowerment, NutriMillets Foods Private Limited is charting the course for a world where ancient grains power contemporary life.
