Medjool dates, saffron and cardamon seeds: Entrepreneur creates flavorful functional alternative to traditional milkshakes

Her new beverage start-up, Sinsible Food, launches with Cardamon Sunset: a dairy-free, clean-label drink blending organic almonds, Medjool dates, peanuts, saffron and cardamon seeds into a smooth, indulgent yet functional alternative.

The brand’s launch comes as consumers become increasingly discerning about drinks that are healthy and functional... yet also offer an indulgent experience.

From finance to functional beverages

As a mum-of-two from Maidenhead near London in the UK, Masuma Zahara Bukhari spent years working in corporate finance.

But her journey toward creating Sinsible Food began three years ago when she personally transitioned to a dairy-free lifestyle.

“Every time I’d consume anything dairy, it would make me feel uncomfortable and sluggish,” she said.

“As I educated myself about the production of dairy products, I grew really disheartened and shocked at the ill treatment imposed on animals.

“I began rewiring my mind to consume non-dairy and I found that there wasn’t a ready-to-drink, plant based, milk shake textured drink you could buy unless it was a large 1 liter carton or something containing more than three different genetically modified ingredients (GMOs), oils or emulsifiers.”

That inspired the launch of Sinsible Food: and Bukhari spent two years refining her recipe at home, crafting a plant-based drink free from dairy (it is based on almond milk) and refined sugar, but also rich in natural protein, fiber and antioxidants.

“The Original Cardamom Sunset flavor contains only six ingredients and all those ingredients have anti inflammatory properties: Medjool dates, almonds, peanuts, saffron, cardamom seeds and sunflower lecithin,” she explained.

“I’d give the drink to family and friends who would love the taste and really become inquisitive about the ingredients.

“I then began making the almond milk myself then using that as a base to turn raw, organic, whole ingredients into a refreshing and flavorful creamy textured drink. I carefully selected each ingredient by its function. Each ingredient has an intention.”

While functionality and dairy-free is integral to the brand’s mission, so is the quality, flavor and experience, says Bukhari.

That’s where the brand’s exotic ingredients also shine.

“The drink has a thick and smooth texture,” she explains.

“It tastes like a velvety, refreshingly sweet, milk shake; containing hints of cardamom and saffron.

“There is an underlying note of peanuts, you can’t quiet put your finger on it. The drink is naturally sweet with Organic Medjool dates and the sweetness is moreish.”

Functionality meets flavor

Bukhari isn’t alone in transitioning away from dairy. While a certain number of consumers have always needed lactose-free options, more and more people are concerned about dairy’s impact on the environment.

That’s lead to a huge rise in plant-based alternatives. Around 3% of the UK population identifies as vegan, according to The Vegan Society, representing around 2 million consumers. But many more are making efforts to reduce animal products from their diets, with as estimated 10% of the population reducing or eliminating animal products in some way.

For Bukhari, Sinsible Food is about leading a mission that an increasing number of consumers are gravitating to: a balance between indulgence and intention.

The company is founded on the principles of intentional living, minimalism and environmental care: “Our aim is to make plant-based living luxurious, sustainable and deeply satisfying,” explained Bukhari.

Instead of using aseptically filled cartons which are lined with plastic and aluminum, Cardamon Sunset is crafted in small batches, made from organic ingredients, and packaged in recyclable glass bottles for freshness and sustainability.

While many plant-based beverages rely on stabilizers, emulsifiers or hydrocolloids, Cardamon Sunset is made with organic ingredients (organic certification is pending) and packaged in recyclable glass bottles for freshness and stability.

Bukhari believes the potential for the beverage is enormous: attracting everyone from wellness fanatics to health-conscious families of all ages.

A second flavor (Rose) is already in development. She also plans to expand the brand into international markets, with early interest from the Middle East.

“Since 2021, I’ve become more in touch with nature,” Bukhari explained.

“My personal experiences have led me to make more efforts to learn about what goes into our bodies and the foods we buy not only for ourselves but also for our children.

“Which habits are we instilling in our children? Are we stimulating and educating our children to question and interrogate products they see advertised in the supermarkets?

“I’ve leveled up a great deal in learning about food and it’s impact on our diets, health and well-being and that is where Sinsible was born.”