OUR STORY
From Soil To Spice
India's spice trade carries a legacy as rich as its flavors, tracing back over 2,000 years. Aromatic treasures like black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves once journeyed across oceans, exchanged for gold and silver, making spices not just culinary delights but symbols of wealth and influence.
Even today, India stands as the world's largest producer and exporter of spices, continuing a heritage that has shaped global taste for centuries. At Karmin, we honor this legacy with a modern commitment: sustainable farming that nurtures both the soil and human health. By embracing eco-friendly practices and responsible sourcing, we aspire to spread flavors sustainably—carrying forward India's timeless spice story into a healthier, more mindful future.
The Leap Into Organic Farming
Dr. Radhika Cherukuri, spent decades working closely with farmers and rural communities across India. During her research it became abundantly clear that toxic pesticides and fertilizers have become the norm in farming; contaminating the soil, food, and the ecosystem of the surrounding environment. Troubled by the ground reality of her research, Radhika took on the challenge on growing chilli- the most difficult to grow crop without commercial pesticides and fertilizers.
Recognizing chilli's cultural and culinary importance as a spice across most cuisines, and its necessity in an Indian kitchen, Radhika found it perfect to try and cultivate it organically. Three years ago, she transitioned from academia to hands-on organic farming. Though a first-time practitioner, she overcame numerous challenges and successfully produced organically grown red chillies rich in flavor, deep in color, and medium heat.
Building Karmin Naturals
At Karmin, our chillies are grown without any chemical fertilizers or pesticides, using only natural methods rooted in traditional practices and modern organic science. From seed to harvest, every step is optimized to preserve soil health, protect the environment, and produce chillies that are rich in flavor and nutrients. This results in a product that not only tastes superior but also offers greater nutritional value compared to conventionally grown varieties.
Karmin's organic chillies have been officially certified organic, reinforcing our commitment to quality and transparency. Comprehensive test results, including pesticide residue analysis, are available on our website and product labels for public reference.
Our Philosophy
For Radhika, this journey is not only about chillies—it's about reimagining the relationship between food, farmers, and consumers. By eliminating harmful chemicals and promoting sustainable farming, Karmin Naturals contributes to healthier communities, empowered farmers, and ecosystems that can thrive for generations. At Karmin, we believe food should nourish both people and the planet. Our organic products embody this belief—delivering purity, authenticity, and uncompromised quality in every pinch.
Meet Our Founder
Dr. Radhika Cherukuri, PhD in Agricultural Sciences, the Founder and Managing Partner has over two decades of experience in agricultural research and served as Professor and Director at the National Institute of Rural Development, a Government of India enterprise. Her extensive work with rural communities deepened her understanding of the crucial links between public health, nutrition, and soil health.