11 Artisanal Food Products Indians Are Buying

2. Handmade toffees and traditional confections

There's a nostalgic pull behind the revival of handmade toffees and other traditional sweets. The Hindu documented how small makers across towns are making classic toffee and sugar-based confections again, tapping both memory and quality-seeking customers (The Hindu). These treats often use simple ingredients—sugar, ghee, milk solids—and rely on skill for texture and shine. Buyers appreciate transparent sourcing and small production runs that avoid industrial preservatives. That said, artisanal confection makers face sustainability hurdles: steady sales are needed for consistent production and for meeting food safety norms. When shopping, check ingredient lists, look for maker stories that explain process and origin, and prefer vendors with clear packaging and expiry dates. For gifting, choose attractively packaged tins or glass jars that protect softness. If you find a small maker through local markets or verified social channels, ask about shelf life and storage recommendations to keep the candies at their best.