American consumers are looking for new, authentic tastes as we approach the second summer of warmer temperatures. One survey commissioned by the Union City, New Jersey-based Deep Indian Kitchen found that the number one reason is convenience. While it is true that consumers are looking for comfort and variety, they are also searching for a taste of exotic travel. As a result, the popularity of Indian food may be gaining steam in the US as Americans become savvier about how to prepare it.
India’s Growing Middle Class
Because of India’s expanding middle class, demand for Indian food in USA is rising. Many Americans have become attracted to the variety of Indian cuisine available in the country, mainly due to the affordability of the cooking and its exotic flavors. Aspirers earn $4,376-$10,941, while strivers earn between 500,000 and one million rupees. In the United States, this class would fall below the poverty line, but in India, things are less expensive and more affordable.
While most Indians have been living in abject poverty for most of their lives, the recent economic development has given rise to a rapidly growing middle class. The McKinsey Global Institute projects that India’s middle class will comprise upwardly mobile households by the end of the decade, buying high-end cars and designer clothing. By 2025, India will become the fifth largest consumer market, surpassing Germany.
It’s the Export of Agricultural Commodities.
The U.S. is one of India’s largest trading partners and a significant agricultural exporter. The country is the world’s top producer of rice, pulses, cottonseed, and ethanol. In 2016, the U.S. imported $279 million of agricultural products from India. Other major imports from India include tree nuts, fish products, rice, and guar gum.
In addition to exporting agricultural commodities, India provides access to the American market for most fresh fruits and vegetables. A growing segment of Indian consumers is demanding high-quality products throughout the year. According to estimates, U.S. new fruit exports to India were worth $40.7 million in 2020, with apples accounting for the largest market share. However, Indian agricultural commodities import tariffs increased in 2019, increasing from 50% to 70%. These increased tariffs were in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S.
It’s Easy to Cook
There are many reasons to love Indian food. For one thing, delicious food is easily prepared, inexpensive, and increasingly popular among Americans. In addition, it can be made in many ways, including using simple ingredients and a short amount of time. For another reason, it is a healthy option for those who want to reduce fat, calories, and sodium. Finally, it also has a high nutritional value, making it a healthy alternative to high-calorie burgers.
Another reason for the growing popularity of Indian cuisine in America is that it is inexpensive, easy to prepare, and has a variety of flavors. It is also easy to cook and can be obtained from many sources, including books, libraries, friends, and family. It is also known for its simplicity and nutrient content. The flavors of Indian food are enhanced with simple spices. It can be enjoyed by almost everyone, whether you are looking to impress a guest or make dinner for yourself.
Its association with yoga
Demand for Indian food in the United States has grown as the yoga trend spreads worldwide. According to surveys, Indians who consider their religion influential are no longer likely to say they have ever practiced yoga. Those who say they pray daily are slightly more likely. Among Americans, the rising popularity of yoga has increased the number of restaurants serving Indian food.
The popularity of yoga is helping many Americans reconnect with the practice’s spiritual roots. The commercialized nature of yoga is influencing many yogis in America. The rise of yoga in the United States reflects globalization and diverse cultures. Yoga studios have increased by more than half in the last four years.
Its Vegetarianism
The perception of India as predominantly vegetarian has been successfully propagated, with the country being increasingly popular among Americans who are increasingly interested in health-conscious lifestyles. However, food habits within social groups frequently change, as does the influence of migration. As a result, generalizations about large groups of people are often based on what those with power say rather than on the proper habits of the people. Similarly, the perception of India as predominantly vegetarian among Americans is based on the stereotype that Indian food is only for vegetarians.
While many Indians refrain from eating meat, it is only 20% of the country’s population. This proportion is considerably higher than the official estimates, which state that 180 million Indians consume meat. But what most people do not know is that even though the Indian population is vegetarian, only 6% of upper-caste Indians follow a vegetarian diet. In addition, there is no evidence of the abolition of meat in India. However, a recent Hindu-CNN-IBN survey reveals that a third of the population follows a vegetarian diet. Vegetarians include people from lower castes and communities, such as the Dalits and tribals. Although the number of vegetarians in India is higher than that of meat-eating households, most Indians eat a limited amount of meat daily.