Kartika Suresh’s ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’: Transforming Kerala’s Agribusiness Landscape

In the heart of Kerala’s agrarian landscape, Kartika Suresh, a 31-year-old engineer from Irinjalakuda, has embarked on a journey that bridges traditional farming with modern entrepreneurship. His venture, ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good,’ established in 2021, stands as a testament to innovation in the agribusiness sector, focusing on sourcing exotic fruits and jackfruit varieties directly from farmers in Kerala and Himachal Pradesh.

The inception of ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’ was driven by a simple yet profound observation: the labor-intensive process of extracting jackfruit pods at home deterred many from consuming this nutritious fruit. Recognizing this gap, Suresh introduced ready-to-eat, hygienically packed jackfruit pods, making it convenient for consumers to enjoy the fruit without the associated hassle.

This innovative approach not only catered to consumer needs but also addressed significant challenges faced by farmers. By establishing direct partnerships with over 200 farmers, ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’ ensures a Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the produce, providing growers with fair compensation and reducing the risk of exploitation by middlemen. This model has fostered a farmer-first ecosystem, promoting sustainable farming practices and enhancing the livelihoods of local agricultural communities.

The company’s product range includes a variety of exotic fruits such as rambutan, mangosteen, avocado, passion fruit, and abiu. These fruits, often considered niche or export-only, have found a place in the Indian market through ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’s direct farm partnerships. The venture’s commitment to quality and sustainability has garnered attention from major retail chains, with its products now available in hypermarkets and retail outlets across Kerala and beyond.

One of the standout products is the ready-to-eat jackfruit pods, which have gained popularity for their convenience and nutritional value. The company processes and sells over 10 tonnes of jackfruit pods each month, catering to the growing demand for healthy, plant-based food options. This product alone has contributed significantly to the company’s turnover, which reached ₹1.5 crore in the fiscal year 2024-2025.

To manage the perishability of certain fruits, particularly rambutan, which must be sold the very next day after harvest, ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’ employs a robust logistics system. The team relies on pre-sale bookings and ensures that deliveries reach customers within 48 hours, using a mix of buses, trains, and air freight. This efficient supply chain management has been crucial in maintaining the freshness of the products and meeting customer expectations.

The success of ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’ is not just measured in financial terms but also in its social impact. The venture has created employment opportunities for local communities, particularly women, who are involved in various stages of the production process, from fruit collection to packaging. This inclusive approach has empowered individuals and contributed to the socio-economic development of the region.

Looking ahead, ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’ aims to expand its footprint beyond Indian borders. The company plans to tap into international markets, including the Gulf, Canada, and the United States, through exporters and distributors. This expansion aligns with the growing global demand for exotic fruits and plant-based food products, positioning ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’ as a key player in the international agribusiness arena.

Kartika Suresh’s journey from an engineer to an agripreneur underscores the transformative potential of India’s MSME sector. Through his vision and dedication, ‘Fresh ‘n’ Good’ has not only empowered farmers but also introduced consumers to the rich flavors and nutritional benefits of exotic fruits and jackfruit. As the company continues to expand its reach and product offerings, it stands as a shining example of how innovation and sustainability can drive economic growth and social impact in India’s agribusiness sector.