In Thiruvananthapuram, the food scene is shifting. A new wave of entrepreneurs is replacing traditional indulgence with a focus on health-conscious eating. From salads and smoothies to oil-free platters, these local ventures are making nutritious food both accessible and appealing.
The Start of a Movement
For Vrinda Vinod, a 25-year-old entrepreneur, healthy eating became a way of life early on. Losing her grandfather to high blood pressure shaped her perspective. Encouraged by her mother’s creative approach to healthy cooking, Vrinda opened The Salad Bistro in November 2023. Operating out of Pattom, the cloud kitchen offers dishes crafted with care, balancing flavor and nutrition.
Healthy Choices on the Menu
Vrinda isn’t alone. Several others in Thiruvananthapuram have joined the healthy food movement. Outlets like Boiled, Steamed, and Whealthier are proving that nutritious food doesn’t have to be boring.
At Boiled, located in Jawahar Nagar, dishes like honey chili lemon chicken and coconut milk poached chicken are made without a drop of oil or sugar. “People today want food that supports their health. We’ve tailored our menu to fit that need,” says founder Sreenath Raveendran.
Meanwhile, Steamed focuses on guilt-free indulgence. Founded by young entrepreneurs, it offers oil-free momos, protein-packed wraps, and even desserts like sugar-free protein bars. “We ensure every meal is balanced with the right amount of nutrients,” says co-founder Pranoy.
A Twist to Salads
While salads were once considered dull, Whealthier is turning the concept on its head. The cloud kitchen specializes in salads with creative dressings—from yogurt-based to cashew-based sauces. “We want customers to enjoy their meals without monotony,” says co-founder Anosh Krishna.
Adding proteins like turkey and salmon, they’ve made salads both filling and flavorful, catering to fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters alike.
Making Healthy Eating Convenient
To encourage consistency, many outlets now offer subscription plans. These packages are designed for busy professionals, students, and seniors who want nutritious meals delivered to their doorstep.
“We see MBBS students, techies, and even senior citizens subscribing to our services,” shares Vrinda. The plans vary in price, making healthy eating an affordable option for different budgets.
The Art of Healthy Cooking
Beyond ingredients, these food ventures emphasize mindful cooking methods. Techniques like steaming, air frying, and toasting are used to preserve nutrients while enhancing flavors.
Nutritionist Dr. Leena Saju explains, “Cooking methods play a significant role in maintaining a dish’s health benefits. Using alternatives to frying can reduce calorie intake and keep meals lighter.”
A Healthier Future
With more people becoming aware of lifestyle diseases, Thiruvananthapuram’s healthy food ventures are meeting the demand for better eating habits. These businesses are not just serving meals; they’re inspiring a city to embrace a healthier lifestyle, one bite at a time.
