CLEARWATER, Fla. — More than 50 years ago, Bindu Grandi's parents created their own hot sauce recipe in their native India. Now, Grundy has turned that recipe into his family business here in Tampa Bay.
“My mother and father both grew up in Bangalore, India. As you know, India is known for its cuisine, its spicy food, and its use of herbs and spices. So my mother, like my father, I’m a natural-born cook,’” Grundy said.
Grundy's family immigrated to the United States via England when she was just 3 years old, and she followed her family's recipes.
“I received a lot of compliments about the sauce and asked, 'When can I get it?' That's when I knew we had something special,” Grundy said. .
Before the pandemic, Grundy had worked in New York City's corporate and healthcare industries for more than 20 years. That's when she finally decided to pursue her dream business, My Spice Buds.
“People are looking for hot sauce options that prioritize health and flavor, and that's our sauce,” Grundy said.
Grundy thought there was no better place to introduce My Spice Buds than Tampa Bay, so he moved his entire family south.
“The Tampa Bay area is very vibrant with farmers markets and festivals held year-round, and such venues are important for small businesses to get started,” Grundy said. “And I have to say we're very lucky to be here because there are so many great resources available to entrepreneurs and women entrepreneurs.”
Now, 18 months after starting her business, Grundy is moving her signature sauce from farmers markets to grocery store shelves.
Nature's Food Patch was the first and so far only grocery store to give them a chance. It's no coincidence that they are a small, family-run business.
“I love working with other women, especially here at Nature's Food Patch. We empower each other and help lift each other up. I love that community. I love that aspect of it and the family orientation,” said Yacinia Colacchio of Nature’s Food Patch.
Grundy said the best part was being able to share this journey with her parents. Her history with them inspired her to make her own history.
“My husband and I came to this country as immigrants in 1972 with two simple suitcases and many dreams. It is one of the dreams that she helped us achieve and turn into reality. We are very, very proud of her,” said her mother Vasantha Prasad.
Grundy wants to be a voice for female immigrant entrepreneurs around the world.
“And hopefully we can share our story and inspire others,” Grundy said.
For more information about My Spice Buds, please visit www.myspicebuds.com.