Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Oct 16: Ever heard of a Jain dog biscuit? A Mumbai-based pharmaceutical company has made it a reality. Fredun Pharmaceuticals Limited (FPL) has announced the launch of ‘Snacky Jain’, which it claims to be India’s first pure Jain dog biscuit — a product that has already created a buzz across the country even before hitting the shelves.
Fredun Medhora, 39, Managing Director of FPL, said that ever since the announcement on Monday, his phone has been ringing every few minutes with calls for pre-orders. “We’ve already sold 12 tonnes through WhatsApp pre-orders,” he said, adding that the first batch will reach stores next month.
The product, designed for pet owners who follow a strict Jain diet, excludes root vegetables like onion and garlic, as well as honey. Medhora described Snacky Jain as a healthier alternative to the “kachra” or junk treats often given to vegetarian pets. “Dogs don’t like vegetarian food, but if you must give them vegetarian treats, let it be something nutritious,” he said. “The biscuits are fit for dogs — and even humans. My 81-year-old mother has tried them herself.”
Priced at Rs 35 for 100 gm, Rs 265 for 500 gm, and Rs 425 for 1 kg, Snacky Jain is made with rice, ragi, oats, Kakvi (liquid jaggery), fruit and vegetable extracts, vitamins, minerals, rosemary extract, and Brahmi. The product has been formulated by Dr Dhananjay Pandit, FPL’s in-house pet nutritionist.
Medhora, who lives in Mumbai with his mother and five dogs, clarified that Snacky Jain is not a meal replacement but a healthier snack. “You can’t give this to your dog three times a day. It’s not a substitute for food but a replacement for junk biscuits made from maida,” he said.
The idea for the product emerged after Medhora interacted with hundreds of Jain families who wanted to keep pets but struggled with dietary restrictions. “There are many affluent Jains who can afford pets but are hesitant because of food concerns. Snacky Jain opens that gateway for them,” he added.
The product, manufactured by Freossi, FPL’s pet care arm, follows the success of Snacky Veg, India’s first vegetarian dog biscuit. Medhora said that while Snacky Veg found popularity, many Jains refused to buy it because it contained honey. That demand gap led to Snacky Jain.
The company expects strong sales in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Sangli, Satara, Chennai, and parts of Kolkata — regions with a significant Jain population. “We knew there was a market waiting for this,” Medhora said with a smile.