Nepali cuisine is making its mark on the global stage, thanks to the remarkable achievements of Nepal Foods, a brand dedicated to promoting authentic Nepali food. The company, led by visionary entrepreneur Bikash Nepal, recently won four Great Taste 2024 Awards and was crowned ‘Best Nepalese Brand of the Year 2024’ at the 9th Asian Food and Restaurant Awards International.
These achievements underscore the exceptional quality of Nepal Foods’ products, its dedication to introducing Nepali flavors worldwide, and its significant contribution to globalizing Nepali cuisine.
Nepal Foods’ Wins at the Great Taste 2024 Awards
The Great Taste Awards, organized by the Guild of Fine Food, are among the most prestigious recognitions in the food and drink industry. This year, more than 13,000 food products from 115 countries were evaluated, with only 40% receiving awards.
Nepal Foods outshone many by securing awards for four products:
- Hot Momo Sauce (Great Taste 2 Star)
- Chilli Oil with Shrimp (Great Taste 2 Star)
- Chicken Momo (Great Taste 1 Star)
- Flaming Hot Akbare Sticks (Great Taste 1 Star)
The 2-Star rating signifies that the judges considered these products to be “outstanding,” while the 1-Star rating denotes a product of “simply delicious” quality.
A Journey Rooted in Vision and Hard Work
Bikash Nepal, the founder of Nepal Foods, started his journey in 2009 when he moved to London to pursue a master’s degree in marketing. Initially marketing Indian products, he soon realized his passion lay in promoting Nepali food. In 2018, he established Nepal Foods to process and produce essential Nepali culinary items, ensuring that Nepali households abroad could access the authentic flavors of home.
Starting with staples like lentils, rice, turmeric, and tea leaves, Nepal Foods now produces over 300 consumable items. Bikash’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality have not only introduced traditional Nepali products like Gundruk, Jimbu, and pickles to international markets but also created a platform for Nepali food on the global culinary map.
Nepal Foods’ Global Reach
Nepal Foods has grown from catering to Nepali households in London to exporting its products to 25 countries, including the USA, Japan, Australia, and most European nations. While items like Chilli Oil with Shrimp and Chicken Momo are produced in London, others, like the Hot Momo Sauce and Flaming Akbare Sticks, are crafted in Nepal. The company has also established a factory in Tahachal, Kathmandu, providing direct employment to 17 individuals.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite its success, Nepal Foods faces challenges, particularly in justifying its product prices to customers. The cost of production, packaging, and transportation often exceeds that of comparable Indian products. However, Bikash emphasizes that the quality of Nepal Foods’ products, combined with attractive packaging and global recognition, sets them apart.
“We aim to maintain the highest quality standards while reaching both Nepali and international communities. The Great Taste Awards and customer feedback inspire us to continue globalizing Nepali cuisine,” says Bikash.
Recognition as Best Nepalese Brand of the Year
In addition to its Great Taste Awards success, Nepal Foods was named ‘Best Nepalese Brand of the Year 2024’ at the 9th Asian Food and Restaurant Awards International, held on December 2, 2024. This accolade celebrates the brand’s dedication to preserving and promoting Nepali culinary heritage worldwide.
Looking Ahead
With its growing global footprint, Nepal Foods is paving the way for authentic Nepali cuisine to reach new heights. From traditional items like Gundruk and Jimbu to innovative creations like Hot Momo Sauce, the brand continues to captivate food enthusiasts worldwide.
Bikash Nepal’s vision and commitment to excellence have transformed Nepal Foods into a household name in Nepali and international communities alike. As the company continues to innovate and expand, it stands as a shining example of how Nepali entrepreneurs can succeed on the global stage.
Nepal Foods is not just about food, it’s about bringing the taste of Nepal to the world, one plate at a time.
