Influencer Marketing in Food Category 2025

Shourya

The food industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation, propelled by the rise of health-conscious consumers, influencer-led marketing, and visually rich content creation across social platforms.
Food Logo

Introduction: The Indian Food Market

The Indian food market has transformed significantly, driven by evolving consumer preferences, digital marketing innovations, and the rise of e-commerce platforms. Key drivers of growth include rising health consciousness, demand for convenience, and a growing preference for authentic, pure, and organic products.

Social media platforms like Instagram—boosted by influencer and celebrity endorsements—have revolutionized brand engagement. E-commerce giants such as Amazon, Flipkart, and Bigbasket facilitate widespread access to diverse food products, bridging urban and regional markets.

Consumer behavior is shifting toward transparency—embracing clean labels and single-origin sourcing—as well as sustainability, with a strong tilt toward organic and vegan options. Value-driven purchases, often sparked by festive promotions and discounts, continue to shape demand.

Technological advancements like AI-powered recipe generators, coupled with lifestyle changes prioritizing fitness and wellness, are further redefining what Indian consumers expect from their food—making this one of the most exciting and fast-evolving markets in the country.

From packaged food to fitness-focused brands, organic and vegan offerings, and even ice cream parlors and dry fruit labels, each segment of India’s food market showcases distinct consumer trends and standout performers. Here’s a deep dive into category-wise analysis and brand performance:

Leading Indian Food Brands

World’s strongest food brand (AAA+ rating) with protein-rich dairy products; positioned as a trusted, versatile choice.

Protein-packed soya chunks and soft atta; focuses on affordability and health.

Cheesy, innovative recipes; targets urban consumers via digital campaigns.

Impact Whey Protein for all fitness goals; positioned as a premium global brand.

Certified organic pulses and atta with QR code traceability; positioned as a health-conscious, eco-friendly choice.

Authentic regional mango pulp and pickles; targets nostalgia-driven buyers.

Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil with varied pungency levels; emphasizes bold flavor and health.

Single-origin ghee and milk from one farm; positioned as a premium, pure brand.

Scatter Plot
Followers growth of 200+ food brands in the last six months

Packaged Food Brands

The packaged food market in India is simmering with innovation, blending health-conscious choices with festive flair and convenient bites. Consumers crave nutritious, flavorful, and ready-to-eat options, driving a vibrant sector that fuses tradition with modern tastes.

This market unites legacy giants with rising innovators. Nestlé, Amul, ITC, and Haldiram’s lead with iconic Maggi, protein-packed dairy, and festive snacks, while Britannia and Parle deliver nostalgic biscuits. Emerging players like Sunrich Rice, Be.Gladful, and Wingreens Farms shine with premium basmati, sprouted ragi, and healthy dips.

Growth is fueled by high-protein, low-sugar innovations, fusion recipes like Malpua Tacos, and sustainable packaging like ITC’s Ecobyte boxes. Festive sales, influencer-driven contests, and nostalgia—think Center Fruit’s “Laplapayee”—amplify appeal. Brands like Aashirvaad Organic and Country Delight champion natural ingredients, while retail platforms and culinary events keep this market’s flavorful pulse beating strong.

Neelam’s Cooking Diaries collaborates with Aashirvaad Besan for the perfect monsoon comfort food!

Naman Kapoor collaborates with Bingo! Mad Angles for a madder Delhi Comic Con experience!

Packaged Food Brands

The figure on the left illustrates the number of influencer reels identified for these brands over the past six months. A larger logo size indicates a greater number of content pieces discovered. Some of the top brands are Maggi India (78 reels), Bingo Snacks (78 reels), Aashirvaad (59 reels), Cadbury Celebrations (48 reels), Mother Dairy (44 reels), Amul India (39 reels), Ching’s Secret (37 reels), Wingreens World (35 reels), Parle-G (35 reels), Sunfeast Yippee (34 reels), Heaven’s Harvest Basmati (33 reels), Everest Spices (33 reels), Saffola Mom’s Magic (32 reels), Kellogg’s India (32 reels), Veeba (30 reels), Catch Foods (27 reels), Pintola (26 reels), and Nestlé (24 reels)

Fitness Food Brands

The fitness food market in India is thriving, fueled by a surge in demand for protein-rich, convenient nutrition. Consumers seek high-quality, flavorful supplements and snacks that align with fitness goals, driving a dynamic sector blending science, transparency, and health-focused innovation.

This market unites established giants with rising innovators. MuscleBlaze, Optimum Nutrition, and RiteBite Max Protein lead with whey powders and bars, while Guardian GNC, and Myprotein offer diverse supplements. Emerging players like Naturaltein, The Whole Truth Foods, and Nakpro Nutrition shine with clean, lab-tested whey, and HRX by Eatfit delivers protein-packed meals.

Growth is propelled by new flavors like MuscleBlaze’s Triple Chocolate, convenient bars, and vegetarian-friendly options. Transparency, with certifications like Fuel One’s Trustified, and natural ingredients drive trust. Digital campaigns, influencer tie-ups, and festive discounts amplify this market’s vibrant appeal, catering to muscle-builders and wellness seekers alike.

Splits Girl collaborates with MuscleBlaze for a refreshing fitness boost!

It’s the small steps that lead to incredible results, one day at a time!

Aniket Pakhrin Lama collaborates with Optimum Nutrition!

Train like a Pro to become one!

With 24g of high-quality protein per scoop, I recover like a pro too—thanks to Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey, my trusted recovery partner.

Fitness Brand Reel 1

The figure on the left illustrates the number of influencer reels identified for these brands over the past six months. A larger logo size indicates a greater number of content pieces discovered. Some of the top brands are MuscleBlaze (249 reels), Guardian GNC (138 reels), Avvatar India (129 reels), BigMuscles Nutrition (124 reels), MyProtein India (99 reels), Kapiva (89 reels), The Dr. Choice (75 reels), Naturaltein India (59 reels), Ripped Up Nutrition (56 reels), Optimum Nutrition India (50 reels), QNT India (40 reels), RiteBite Max Protein (39 reels), The Whole Truth Foods (34 reels), Fuel One (31 reels), Alpino Health Foods (26 reels), and Nutrabay (23 reels)

Organic and Vegan Food Brands

The organic and vegan food market in India is blossoming, propelled by a surge in health-conscious and ethically driven choices. Consumers crave pure, organic ingredients and versatile vegan alternatives, fueling a vibrant sector rooted in tradition yet brimming with innovation.

This market blends established pioneers with bold newcomers. Organic Tattva leads with certified organic staples like millets and besan, while Desi Treat shines with vegan soy chaap recipes, earning PETA India Vegan Food Awards acclaim. Natureland Organics champions wood-pressed oils and A2 ghee. Emerging brands like Wicked Gud, Plantaway Foods, and Siri Millets Vegan Ice Creams diversify vegan offerings.

Growth is driven by high-protein, natural products, and creative vegan spins on classics like Karanji. Social media recipes, health-focused oils, and ethical appeal amplify this market’s allure, resonating with wellness seekers and eco-conscious foodies alike.

Pooja’s Chulha collaborates with Organic Tattva to bring a festive twist to Bhai Dooj with homemade Dal Pakwan!

Cooking with Organic Tattva’s pure and high-quality ingredients makes this family-favorite dish even more special.

FoodieGirlsDF collaborates with Desi Treat! 🍢🔥

Satisfy your cravings with this Ready-to-Eat Afghani Chaap Tikka—flavorful, easy, and oh-so-delicious!

Organic and Vegan Food Brands

The figure on the left illustrates the number of influencer reels identified for these brands over the past six months. A larger logo size indicates a greater number of content pieces discovered. Some of the top brands are Desi Treat (12 reels), Organic Tattva (6 reels), The Biker’s Cafe (5 reels), Super Munchies India (3 reels), Natureland Organics (3 reels), and Farmers Cafe Mumbai (2 reels)

Ice Cream & Dessert Parlour

The ice cream and dessert parlour market in India is a sweet sensation, driven by innovative flavors and festive celebrations. Consumers crave indulgent treats, novel tastes, and value-driven deals, fueling a vibrant sector that blends nostalgia with modern flair.

This market unites established giants with spirited newcomers. Vadilal, Havmor, Baskin Robbins, and Natural Ice Cream lead with iconic flavors and festive specials like Havmor’s Red Velvet Heartbeat Cake. Cornetto and The Belgian Waffle Co. dazzle with launches like Strawberry & Vanilla and Mini Waff Wiches. Emerging players like NIC Ice Creams, with regionally-inspired scoops, and Apsara Ice Creams with “Zero Added Sugar” options, shine.

Growth is propelled by unique sundaes, health-conscious offerings, and delivery via Swiggy. AR campaigns, influencer tie-ups, and festive discounts—like Baskin Robbins’ 31% off—amplify this market’s deliciously dynamic appeal.

Ice Cream & Dessert Parlors Logo

The figure on the left illustrates the number of influencer reels identified for these brands over the past six months. A larger logo size indicates a greater number of content pieces discovered. Some of the top brands are Havmor Ice Creams (31 reels), The Belgian Waffle Co (17 reels), NIC Ice Creams (14 reels), Vadilal Ice Creams (12 reels), and Natural Ice Cream (10 reels)

Saint in Baggy collaborates with NIC Ice Creams for a hilarious take on indulgence in The Rich Intern

Hungry Soulmates collaborates with The Belgian Waffle Co. to bring you the ultimate dessert experience in Howrah!

Nut and Dry Fruit Brands

The nuts and dry fruits market in India is thriving, fueled by a surge in healthy snacking and festive gifting. Consumers crave nutritious, flavorful options and premium gifts, driving a dynamic sector that blends wellness with indulgent variety.

This market unites established leaders with rising innovators. Happilo India and Ariga Foods lead with trail mixes and flavored nuts like Tandoori Almonds, while Occasions Dry Fruits excels in stuffed dates and hampers. Safa Dry Fruits offers wholesale reach. Emerging players like Palm Tree Dry Fruits, with new showrooms, and Meva Bite shine with festive deals. Go Nuts In and Ajfan Store cater to gifting and sugar-free diets.

Shilpa Shetty collaborates with Zoff Foods to bring the bold flavors of Khadey Masaley! ❤️

Because when it comes to pure, aromatic, and high-quality spices, ‘Param Satya’ toh sirf ek hi hai… Khadey Masaley Matlab ZOFF!

JustTheWayYouAre_96 collaborates with Occasions Dry Fruits to celebrate their New Store Launch! 🎉

Nut and Dry Fruit Brands

The figure on the left illustrates the number of influencer reels identified for these brands over the past six months. A larger logo size indicates a greater number of content pieces discovered. Some of the top brands are Safa Dry Fruits and Spices (12 reels), Zoff Foods (10 reels), Ajfan Store (8 reels), Prov Foods (4 reels), and Occasions Dry Fruits (4 reels)

Cooking Oils and Ghee Brands

The cooking oils and ghee market in India is sizzling with a focus on purity and health, driven by a demand for authentic, high-quality ingredients. Consumers seek unadulterated ghee and versatile oils tailored to culinary and wellness needs, fueling a vibrant sector rich in tradition and trust.

This market blends established giants with niche innovators. Pride of Cows, GRB, and Gowardhan lead with single-origin, pure ghee, while Emami Healthy & Tasty, Dhara, and Gulab Oils dominate with diverse oils like kachhi ghani mustard and ultra-lite soyabean. Emerging players like Pristilo and Hesthetic shine with cold-pressed oils, and Sunpure and Mr Gold offer multi-oil portfolios.

Growth is propelled by health-focused oils, transparent sourcing, and festive campaigns for Diwali. Digital contests, influencer recipes, and e-commerce accessibility amplify appeal, blending heritage flavors with modern health consciousness in this dynamic culinary market.

Swati Sachin Agarwal collaborates with Emami Healthy & Tasty to bring you the pure, bold touch your dishes deserve! Emami Healthy & Tasty Kachchi Ghani Mustard Oil – Strong Variant is the natural way to enhance flavor, aroma, and health in every meal.

HealthyMomSecret collaborates with Pride of Cows to bring you the purest, most trusted ghee for your little one! 🐄✨

Cooking Oils and Ghee Brands

The figure on the left illustrates the number of influencer reels identified for these brands over the past six months. A larger logo size indicates a greater number of content pieces discovered. Some of the top brands are Emami Healthy & Tasty (96 reels), Pride of Cows India (83 reels), Mr. Gold Oils (32 reels), Tirupati Edible Oils (27 reels), Dhara Oils (15 reels), Sunpure (14 reels), Sunland Kitchen (14 reels), Fortune Foods (12 reels), Gold Winner India (11 reels), Cardia Oil (9 reels), Engine Brand (8 reels), Saloni Mustard Oil (7 reels), Gulab Oils India (7 reels), RKG Ghee (6 reels), GRB (6 reels), Fourth & Heart (6 reels), and Sonali Oil (5 reels)

Inside India’s Food Brand Campaigns: Strategy & Impact

Food brands in India are embracing diverse marketing strategies to engage consumers and drive growth. Product launches now focus on fresh flavors and functional innovations that cater to both indulgent and health-conscious audiences. Sales events are timed around festive seasons, offering attractive deals like bulk discounts and buy-one-get-one offers to boost purchases. Contests and giveaways are increasingly used to encourage participation, blending celebration with consumer interests through creative, themed activities. Brand collaborations with influencers, media platforms, and culinary creators help brands build stronger connections and expand their reach in a crowded market

Product Launches:

Brands are expanding their portfolios with fresh flavors and functional innovations to cater to niche audiences.

Cornetto introduced a Strawberry & Vanilla variant, adding a refreshing twist to a classic dessert and appealing to flavor-loving consumers. MuscleBlaze rolled out several new fitness products, including WrathX Cola Frost pre-workout, Biozyme Whey Triple Chocolate, and CreAMP Watermelon creatine—designed for gym-goers seeking both performance and taste.

These launches reflect how brands are diversifying their offerings to align with evolving consumer preferences across indulgence and wellness.

Sales Events:

Pride of Cows rolled out a Milk Offer featuring bulk discounts on 10L packs, encouraging stockpiling for festive cooking and daily use. Meanwhile, Gulab Oils launched its Auspicious August Sale, offering Buy 1 Get 1 deals to tap into early festive shopping behavior.

These campaigns demonstrate how brands use timely sales to boost volume and align with consumer buying patterns during high-demand periods.

Contests & Giveaways:

Brands are driving engagement through interactive contests and themed giveaways, blending celebration with consumer interests.

Gold Winner launched a Sweet Rangoli Contest, inviting users to create edible rangolis for a chance to win prizes—merging tradition with a creative, festive twist. Ripped Up Nutrition celebrated a 50k milestone with a Creatine Giveaway, rewarding its fitness-focused community and strengthening brand loyalty.

These initiatives showcase how brands are using contests to foster participation and deepen connections with their target audiences.

Brand Collaboration:

Brands are teaming up with influencers and media platforms to enhance visibility and connect with audiences through relatable, festive, and culinary content.

Saloni Mustard Oil partnered with Panigrahipriyankaa_official, showcasing its use in festive cooking and tapping into traditional food preparation during celebrations.

Gowardhan Ghee collaborated with StarPlus in a paid media tie-in, leveraging the channel’s reach to strengthen brand presence. Meanwhile, Fortune Foods joined hands with Bebe Da Kitchen, using the cooking show format to highlight its role in flavorful home cooking.

These collaborations reflect how brands are using strategic partnerships to build emotional resonance and expand their reach.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Indian food market in 2025 is set to thrive as it adapts to evolving consumer preferences focused on health, authenticity, and convenience. The rise of packaged and fitness foods, alongside organic and vegan options, reflects the growing demand for healthier choices. Single-origin cooking oils and ghee continue to capture consumer interest, with brands emphasizing purity and authenticity. Looking ahead, the market offers significant growth opportunities, particularly in rural expansion, tech-driven personalization, and sustainable product innovations. To stay competitive, food brands must strengthen influencer partnerships, harness the power of e-commerce, and offer transparent, health-conscious products. By blending India’s rich culinary heritage with modern convenience, brands will ensure their long-term relevance in an ever-changing market.

Discover the Brands