MTR Foods

MTR Foods is a food processing company headquartered in Bengaluru, India. It is part of the Orkla Group, a Norwegian conglomerate, which acquired it in 2007. MTR stands for Mavalli Tiffin Rooms, which traces its origins back to a small restaurant founded in 1924 by the Maiya family in Bengaluru. Over the years, MTR Foods has evolved into a prominent brand in the Indian food industry, known for its wide range of packaged foods that include ready-to-eat meals, spices, instant mixes, and beverages.

History

The history of MTR Foods begins with the establishment of the Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR) restaurant in 1924 by Parampalli Yajnanarayana Maiya and his brothers in Bengaluru. The restaurant gained fame for its delicious South Indian vegetarian cuisine, becoming a landmark in the city. In the 1970s, under the leadership of Harishchandra Maiya, the company ventured into the packaged food business, starting with the introduction of Rava Idli instant mix, inspired by a shortage of rice during World War II.

Products

MTR Foods offers a diverse portfolio of products that cater to the tastes of the Indian diaspora and others interested in Indian cuisine. Its product range includes:

• Ready-to-Eat Meals: These are pre-cooked meals that only require heating before consumption. Popular dishes include Paneer Butter Masala, Rajma Masala, and Sambar.
• Instant Mixes: MTR provides a variety of instant mixes for traditional Indian dishes such as Dosa, Idli, and Vada, making it easier for consumers to prepare these dishes at home.
• Spices: The company produces a range of blended spices for different Indian dishes, enhancing the flavor and aroma of the meals.
• Beverages: MTR also offers traditional Indian beverages like Badam Drink Mix and a variety of teas.

Acquisition by Orkla Group

In 2007, MTR Foods was acquired by the Orkla Group, a Norwegian conglomerate. This acquisition has helped MTR Foods expand its reach beyond India, making its products available in several countries around the world. The partnership has also facilitated the introduction of new products and adherence to international quality standards.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility

MTR Foods is committed to sustainability and social responsibility practices. The company focuses on reducing its environmental impact through various initiatives, including waste management and energy conservation. It also engages in community development programs aimed at education and health.

See Also

• Food processing
• Orkla Group
• Indian cuisine
• Sustainability