A Startup Rooted in Family Heritage (Image Credits: Foodbusinessnews.net)
Food company Paro marked a key expansion by introducing lentil crisps that build on its foundation of lentil-based products inspired by South Asian cuisine.[1][2]
A Startup Rooted in Family Heritage
Paro emerged in February 2023 under the leadership of Umaimah Sharwani, a first-generation Pakistani American entrepreneur. The company quickly gained attention for its ready-to-eat homestyle meals like daal and kitchari, alongside tarka oil – a ghee-based condiment infused with spices.[1][3] These initial offerings drew directly from Sharwani’s cultural background, aiming to make bold South Asian flavors accessible for modern lifestyles.
Sharwani named the brand after her mother, positioning Paro as a bridge between traditional comfort foods and contemporary convenience. Early products emphasized hearty lentils and rich spice profiles, setting the stage for further innovation in plant-based eating.[2]
New Crisps Pack Protein and Cultural Depth
Lentils have always anchored Paro’s lineup, and the new crisps continue this tradition with a snackable twist. Developed in partnership with chef Fatima Khawaja, the product uses lentil flour cooked in avocado oil and finished with custom seasoning blends.[1] Each 4-ounce bag delivers 12 grams of plant-based protein and just 120 calories per serving, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
Three distinct flavors capture specific South Asian inspirations:
- Jalapeño Mint, blending cooling mint with spicy heat reminiscent of classic chutneys.
- BBQ Tikka, layered with tomato, garlic, toasted spices, and smoked paprika for a tikka masala vibe.
- Himalayan Pink Salt & Pepper, featuring salt sourced from Pakistan and warm black pepper notes.
These options remain gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, top 9 allergen-free, non-GMO, and contain zero added sugar.[4]
From Meals to On-the-Go Bites
Sharwani explained the motivation behind the crisps during the launch. “Each flavor was rooted in a specific South Asian food memory and reverse-engineered into snack form,” she said.[1] Customers had embraced the brand’s meal kits but often sought quicker options.
“I kept hearing from people who loved the flavors but didn’t always have time to cook,” Sharwani noted. “Chips felt like the natural next step, a way to bring those same flavors into every day, on-the-go life without compromising on taste or nutrition.”[1] This move positions Paro to reach snackers beyond home cooks, while reinforcing lentils as a versatile superfood.
Availability and Broader Portfolio
The lentil crisps hit the market on March 11, 2026, available immediately on Paro’s website at $30 for a six-pack or $54 for a 12-pack. Retailers stock them for $5.99 per bag.[1] This pricing supports both direct-to-consumer bundles and wider distribution.
Paro’s collection extends further with items like candied fennel seeds – a crunchy digestif – and the turmeric and cumin lentil rice bowl, offering 9 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. Meal bundles, such as the Paro Party pack, combine popcorn, daal rice, and crispy potatoes for quick prep times under 30 minutes.[2]
Key Takeaways
- 12g protein per bag from real lentils and avocado oil.
- Flavors honor South Asian memories: jalapeño mint, BBQ tikka, salt & pepper.
- Vegan, gluten-free, and ready for retail at $5.99.
Paro’s lentil crisps signal a growing demand for culturally inspired, nutritious snacks that fit busy lives. As the brand evolves from pantry staples to portable treats, it invites more people to explore South Asian tastes – what’s your go-to flavor? Tell us in the comments.
