New Delhi, June 18 -- Jeeraor cumin, a staple spice in Indian kitchens, has triggered a battle among India's beverage makers.

These companies are scaling up the production of cumin-infused drinks as the market for alternatives to colas swells. Coca-Cola, DS Group, Bisleri, and Reliance Consumer Products, alongside numerous regional brands, offer such spicy drinks. PepsiCo is reportedly eyeing an entry in the category dominated by bottles priced Rs.10-20 apiece.

"The unorganized segment for jeera-based beverages is estimated at Rs.1,500-2,000 crore, and the per capita aerated beverage consumption in India remains 3-4 times lower than in several other Asian markets," said Nadia Chauhan, joint managing director and chief marketing officer,...