Founder Spotlight: Sahithya Wintrich (Chutni Punch)
Meet Sahithya Wintrich:
The CHUTNI PUNCH line of seasoning powders are inspired by the traditional chutney podis (powders) that I grew up eating in Southern India. These tasty condiments can be sprinkled on right at the table to add a burst of flavor and punch of spice to anything from avocado toast to popcorn.
Location:
Cleveland, Ohio, USA
When did you launch the business?
2022
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Startup Stage:
Self-funded and bootstrapped.
What led you to where you are today?
I've always preferred savory breakfasts. Credit my upbringing in Southern India for that. I grew up eating savory crepes (dosas), steamed rice, and lentil cakes (idlis) with coconut chutney and cooked semolina chock-full of vegetables and spices (upma). Not surprisingly then years later, as I began raising my kids in the United States, I found myself sprinkling the dry spice condiment I grew up eating on my avocado toast, savory oatmeal, eggs, and bagel slathered with cream cheese. The breakfasts changed but the need to add bursts of Indian flavor to my food did not. Then one day, KAPOW! It dawned on me: What if I made the dry spice condiments from my childhood versatile enough to add a burst of flavor to anything, any time of the day? That's how I created CHUTNI PUNCH, a line of seasonings that are easy to use on just about anything. All you need to do is sprinkle, mix, or toss them on, in, and with everything.
What do you wish you knew before embarking on your entrepreneurial journey?
You need a lot of patience in the food industry especially if you are launching something novel and sustainable. Because our shelf-stable South Indian line of condiments is a new category with bold and unique flavors, there is a lot of customer education about the ingredients and flavors that go along with it. Chutney podis (powders) are very common in Southern India and are a pantry staple but they are pretty much unknown in the US. The chutney powders I grew up with are complex, flavorful, and have an irresistible texture. They are typically made with roasted legumes, seeds, herbs, chiles, and spices. The result is a flavor bomb that is shelf-stable ready to help you add a boost of flavor to just about anything.
What is the most difficult decision you've had to make regarding your business so far?
We decided to invest in the packaging right at the beginning. We wanted to create a brand that aims to remove barriers around the perception that using spices is complicated and overwhelming. We wanted the brand to invite people to be creative and playful while nourishing their well-being and health. This meant that we needed something that stood out and was visually striking.
What can you help the VEGPRENEUR community with?
We'd love to help the VEGPRENEUR community with all of the learning we've gained by starting a food brand that is novel and unique. From using the Lean Startup method to iterate on an idea to refine product development, and navigating the farmer's markets space, to the importance of packaging and design, we can help anyone who is just starting out.
How can the VEGPRENEUR community help you?
We are a tiny brand looking to make a big impact. We've set out to build a community where real flavorful food is enjoyed and celebrated and we'd love for you to be a part of it. Try our flavors and share how you use them. Tell your neighbors, friends, or your companies about our flavorful and giftable products.
Fun fact about you:
I lived in the Caribbean for two years and learned to scuba dive before moving to the US.
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