Name: Aniket Bhardwaj

Course: B.Com Program – Semester 3

Roll No.: 23/4791

Email ID: aniketbhardwaj65@gmail.com

Home Town Address: 65 Police Colony, Hauz Khas, New Delhi

Phone Number: 8076050813


The Authentic Taste of Amritsari Papad

Introduction to the Local Product

Amritsari Papad is a famous local product originating from the city of Amritsar, Punjab. It is a thin, crispy snack made from lentils and spices, widely consumed as a side item or starter. Prepared by local artisans and mostly by women working from home, Amritsari Papad reflects the rich culinary tradition of Punjab and supports thousands of families as a source of income.

How It Is Made

The process of making Amritsari Papad is both traditional and labor-intensive:


1. Ingredients: The main ingredients include urad dal (black gram), black pepper, salt, hing (asafoetida), and edible soda.

2. Grinding & Mixing: The dal is soaked, ground into a fine paste, and mixed with spices.

3. Rolling: The paste is kneaded into a dough, divided into small portions, and rolled into thin circles.

4. Drying: These rolled papads are sun-dried for 1-2 days, then packed manually.

Advantages of Amritsari Papad

- Taste & Variety: Available in multiple flavors — plain, masala, jeera, red chili, etc.

- Shelf Life: Long-lasting without refrigeration.

- Employment: Provides livelihood to many self-help groups and small-scale industries.

- Cultural Identity: Represents traditional Punjabi food and rural entrepreneurship.

Disadvantages

- Hygiene Issues: Since many are sun-dried on rooftops, there may be exposure to dust.

- Lack of Branding: Unorganized production makes it hard to compete with branded snacks.

- Middlemen Exploitation: Often, local producers earn very little due to intermediaries.

Health Benefits

- Protein-Rich: Made from urad dal, a high-protein pulse.

- Digestive Aid: Contains hing and black pepper which help digestion.

- Gluten-Free: Good option for people with gluten allergies.


However, excessive consumption (especially when fried) can be unhealthy due to high salt and sodium content.

Issues Faced by the Industry

- Weather Dependency: Sun-drying is seasonal; rainy weather disrupts production.

- Lack of Modern Tools: Many still use traditional rolling pins instead of machines.

- Packaging Problems: Inconsistent packaging affects sales in other states or countries.

Environmental & Nature Point of View

- Eco-Friendly: Mostly handmade using natural ingredients.

- Low Carbon Footprint: Minimal use of electricity or machines in production.

- Sustainable: Local sourcing of ingredients reduces transport emissions.


However, use of plastic in packaging is increasing and can be improved by adopting biodegradable materials.

Conclusion

Amritsari Papad is not just a food item — it’s a symbol of heritage, community, and self-reliance. While it has its limitations, the product showcases how local traditions can build sustainable economies. With better hygiene standards, branding, and eco-conscious packaging, Amritsari Papad can reach international markets and earn the respect it deserves.


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