An interview with Mugdha Bhagchandka, Co-founder of MOM-Meal of the Moment
In this engaging interview, we speak with Mugdha Bhagchandka, the co-founder of MOM-Meal of the Moment, a pioneering venture transforming the way we approach meal preparation.
With a passion for healthy eating and convenience, Mugdha shares her journey in the food industry, the inspiration behind MOM, and the innovative solutions the brand offers to busy individuals and families.
What was the inspiration behind launching MOM, and how did your personal or professional journey shape the idea?
Mugdha Bhagchandka: MOM was born at the intersection of purpose and instinct. The name came to me in a dream during product development—and I felt that it fit the brand ethos perfectly.
MOM stands for nourishment, care, and trust—all the values that our food reflects. My own experience as a student living abroad made me crave food that was both convenient and comforting.
MOM’s co-founder Prateek and I saw a clear gap in the FMCG space for clean, feel-good food that’s ready when you are. MOM became our way of filling that gap.
What systems or practices do you have in place to maintain the highest standards of quality in MOM’s ready-to-eat meals and snacks?
Mugdha Bhagchandka: Quality is non-negotiable for us. We’ve built strong internal systems that span the entire supply chain—from sourcing ingredients through trusted partners to multi-level quality checks during production.
Every product undergoes rigorous testing for shelf life, taste, and real-world usage. We also take consumer feedback seriously and use it to refine our offerings.
Most importantly, if it’s not something we’d confidently feed our own families, it doesn’t make it into a MOM pack.
We pride ourselves on being preservative-free, relying on smart technology and airtight processes to deliver clean, honest food.
How do you foresee the ready-to-eat meals and snacks industry evolving in the coming years, and what role do you see MOM playing in that future?
Mugdha Bhagchandka: We’re witnessing a shift where convenience no longer comes at the cost of nutrition. Consumers are seeking clean-label, nutritionally balanced food that fits into their lifestyle—whether that’s plant-based, gluten-free, or high-protein.
At MOM, we’re not just responding to this change; we aim to lead it. Our vision is to create soul food for modern lives—products that offer comfort, nourishment, and a moment of joy.
We want MOM to become a daily staple, not just in Indian kitchens, but globally, as a brand people turn to for trusted, feel-good meals.
Have there been any strategic partnerships or collaborations that significantly impacted MOM’s growth or direction?
Mugdha Bhagchandka: Yes, several. One of our early turning points was partnering with leading domestic airlines, which gave MOM massive visibility and helped us build trust with a wide audience.
Collaborating with IRCTC was another key step in expanding our reach. On the backend, we’ve partnered with innovators in packaging and food tech to help us scale without compromising quality. Every partnership has been intentional—driven by shared values, vision, and a focus on excellence.
What key lessons or advice would you share with budding entrepreneurs looking to enter the ready-to-eat meals and snacks industry?
Mugdha Bhagchandka: This is a long game—what looks simple on the shelf often involves deep complexity behind the scenes. Invest in your backend: R&D, supply chain, and production will make or break you.
Stay relentlessly consumer-focused; their feedback is your best guide. And above all, build with soul. In a space full of options, what keeps people coming back is the emotion your product evokes. If you can deliver trust and comfort in every bite, you’re already ahead.
Mugdha Bhagchandka’s insights highlight the importance of balancing nutrition and convenience in today’s fast-paced world.
Her vision for MOM not only addresses modern dietary needs but also inspires a healthier lifestyle, making meal planning accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
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