Frequently Asked Questions

1. Ordering, Delivery, Promotions & Customer Support

  1. Where can I purchase Agni Pickles?

You can shop directly through the Agni Pickles online store. The Shop menu lists the current pickle, chutney, and chilli oil collection.

  1. Do I need an account to place an order?

Yes. You need to create an account to place an order. Creating an account is useful if you want to collect Agni Points through the Agni Loyalty Circle and view your customer information more easily.

  1. How do I receive the 15% first-order offer?

Join the Agni Family email list using the sign-up form on the website. The welcome offer and its current conditions are sent through that channel; enter the code at checkout if one is provided.

  1. What is the “Buy any 4 jars, get the 5th jar 50% off” offer?

The website currently advertises this jar offer. Add the eligible jars to your cart and confirm that the promotion is reflected before payment, because offers and eligibility can change.

  1. Do promotions change throughout the year?

Yes. Agni Pickles may offer welcome discounts, bundle offers, seasonal promotions, loyalty rewards, or limited-time launches. Check the website banner, cart, newsletter, and social channels for the current offer and its conditions.

  1. Do you offer local delivery?

Yes. Agni Pickles offers local delivery within eligible Greater Toronto Area delivery zones. The current delivery fee is $15 for orders below the free-delivery threshold, with free GTA delivery advertised for qualifying orders of $100 or more.

  1. When will my order arrive?

Most eligible GTA orders are delivered within 1–2 business days. Delivery timing can change with order volume, weather, traffic, and courier conditions.

  1. What happens if no one is home to receive my delivery?

If no one is available at the delivery address, your order may be safely left at your doorstep unless another arrangement has been made. For an urgent or special delivery request, contact Agni Pickles before ordering.

  1. Is local pickup available?

Yes. The current FAQ lists free pickup near Bolton, at Hwy 50 and King, and Brampton, at Hwy 50 and Castlemore Road. Confirm the available pickup option during checkout before travelling.

  1. Can I order if I live outside the GTA?

Agni Pickles currently serves Ontario. Orders outside eligible GTA delivery zones may be subject to additional courier charges based on the destination. Check checkout availability for your address or contact Agni Pickles before ordering.

  1. Do you ship internationally?

No. Agni Pickles currently ships within Ontario only.

  1. Is same-day delivery available?

Same-day delivery may be possible for selected GTA orders, depending on order timing and availability. Contact the team before placing an urgent order.

  1. Can I track my order?

Tracking or dispatch details are provided once an order has been processed or sent. If you need an update, contact the team with your order number.

  1. What happens if my order is delayed?

Delivery can occasionally be affected by weather, traffic, order volume, or courier issues. Agni Pickles will keep you informed when there is a known delay.

  1. Can I change or cancel an order after checkout?

Confirmed orders cannot normally be changed or cancelled. Please review your cart, delivery details, and contact information carefully before paying.

  1. Can I change my delivery address after placing an order?

The current policy says delivery addresses cannot be modified after an order is placed. Please check your address carefully before checkout.

  1. Which payment methods do you accept?

Use the secure payment methods displayed at checkout, including major credit cards, debit cards, and the available express-payment options.

  1. Can I send Agni Pickles as a gift?

Yes. A jar or mixed selection makes a thoughtful food gift for families, food lovers, celebrations, and special occasions. For a custom note or a larger gift request, contact Agni Pickles before ordering.

  1. Do you offer a subscription plan?

A subscription-plan checkout is not currently listed on the website. Watch the Shop page and newsletter for future bundles, seasonal offers, and launches.

  1. Why does a product show “Sold out” or unavailable?

That product or size is not available to add to cart at that time. Check the product page again later or contact Agni Pickles for the most current availability information.

  1. Can I return an unopened food product?

Because these are food products, all sales are final. Returns or exchanges are not accepted.

  1. What should I do if my jar arrives damaged, defective, or incorrect?

Contact Agni Pickles within 48 hours of delivery at cs@agnipickles.ca. Include your order number and clear photographs of the package and product so the team can review the issue and work toward an appropriate resolution.

  1. How can I contact Agni Pickles or stay informed about launches?

Email cs@agnipickles.ca or call +1 437 246 8966. You can also join the newsletter and follow Agni Pickles on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube, and Facebook for launches, stories, and current offers.

2. The Agni Range & Choosing the Right Jar

  1. What makes Agni Pickles different?

Agni Pickles combines Punjabi family recipes, real ingredients, small-batch preparation, and traditional flavour-building methods. The brand is Canadian-made and focused on bold, nostalgic food rather than factory-style shortcuts.

  1. Are Agni Pickles handmade?

Yes. The products are handcrafted in small batches to protect flavour, texture, and the character of homemade Punjabi achar and condiments.

  1. Are the recipes traditional Punjabi recipes?

The core pickles and chutney are inspired by Punjabi family methods passed through generations. Agni Chilli Oil is a modern, globally inspired condiment made with the same small-batch care.

  1. Why does small-batch production matter?

Small batches allow ingredients, spice blends, and curing time to be handled with care. Natural variations from one batch to another are part of handmade food.

  1. What oils, spices, and ingredients do you use?

Agni uses authentic Indian spices and quality oils, including mustard oil in several traditional achar recipes. Individual ingredients vary by product, so always read the product page and jar label for the exact item you are considering.

  1. Are Agni Pickles ingredients sourced in Canada?

Agni Pickles is made in Canada using a blend of domestic and imported ingredients selected for flavour, authenticity, and quality.

  1. How spicy are Agni products?

Heat varies from mild and sweet-tangy to bold and spicy. Each product description includes flavour and spice guidance to help you choose what suits your taste. If you are new to Indian pickles, begin with a small serving.

  1. Which Agni product is the hottest?

Green Chilli Pickle is the clearest choice for sharp Punjabi chilli heat. Chilli Oil also brings medium-to-bold heat with smoky, savoury depth. Heat can feel different from person to person, so begin with a small amount.

  1. Which products are best for someone new to Indian pickles?

Sweet Lime Pickle and Tamarind Chutney are welcoming first choices for people who enjoy balanced sweet-and-tangy flavours. Mango Pickle is a good next step for the classic Punjabi achar experience.

  1. What jar sizes are currently available online?

Jar sizes vary by product. Many current pickle and chutney listings use 350 mL jars, while Chilli Oil is currently listed in a 355 mL jar. Always check the individual product page because sizes and stock can change.

  1. Which products are customer favourites?

Mango Pickle, Green Chilli Pickle, Garlic Pickle, and Tamarind Chutney are among the customer favourites highlighted on the website. Your best choice depends on whether you want classic mango tang, chilli heat, garlic depth, or sweet-and-sour chutney.

  1. Which products are sweet and tangy rather than hot?

Sweet Lime Pickle and Tamarind Chutney are the main sweet-and-tangy choices. Sweet Lime is a gently spiced cured citrus pickle, while Tamarind Chutney is a smooth, sweet-sour condiment for snacks and chaat.

  1. Which Agni products contain garlic or onion?

Some recipes contain garlic or onion, and Garlic Pickle is made with whole garlic cloves. Always read the current product ingredient list and jar label for the specific product you are considering.

  1. What is Carrot, Cauliflower & Turnip Pickle?

Often called CCT or gajar-gobhi-shalgam achar, it is a Punjabi winter-style pickle made with carrot, cauliflower, and turnip. Agni’s version is tangy, warmly spiced, and lightly sweet, with mustard oil, jaggery, vinegar, and aromatic spices.

  1. How is CCT Pickle different from an ordinary mixed vegetable pickle?

CCT Pickle focuses specifically on carrot, cauliflower, and turnip, the classic Punjabi winter trio. It is not a random mixed-vegetable blend; its flavour profile is built around those vegetables, mustard oil, and traditional North Indian spices.

  1. What is Green Chilli Pickle like?

Agni Green Chilli Pickle is a bold Punjabi-style achar made with fresh green chillies, ginger, mustard oil, vinegar, and spices. Expect a sharp, tangy, spicy flavour rather than a sweet chutney-style heat.

  1. What is Agni Mango Pickle like?

Agni Mango Pickle is a classic Punjabi aam ka achar made with raw green mangoes, roasted spices, and mustard oil. It is tangy, spicy, and deeply savoury, made for parathas, dal-rice, and everyday comfort meals.

  1. What is Agni Garlic Pickle like?

Agni Garlic Pickle uses whole garlic cloves, aromatic spices, and mustard oil. It is bold, spicy, and tangy, with a robust garlic flavour inspired by the fiery character of Punjabi achar.

  1. What is Lime & Asafoetida Pickle?

Also called Nimbu Hing Achar, it is a Punjabi-style lime pickle made with fresh limes, green chillies, ginger, mustard oil, and spices. Asafoetida adds a distinctive aromatic note to its bright, tangy flavour.

  1. What is Sweet Lime Pickle like?

Sweet Lime Pickle is a slow-cured Punjabi citrus achar made with lime or lemon, jaggery, sugar, black salt, and warming spices. It is sweet, tangy, and gently spiced rather than aggressively hot.

  1. Is Tamarind Chutney a pickle?

No. Tamarind Chutney is a separate, smooth Punjabi-style condiment made with tamarind, jaggery, and roasted Indian spices. It is designed for samosas, pakoras, chaat, dahi bhalla, pani puri, and savoury platters.

  1. Is Chilli Oil a pickle?

No. Chilli Oil is a separate condiment: a bold, smoky, umami-rich chilli oil made with chilli flakes, aromatics, sesame seeds, soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. It is ideal for drizzling over noodles, eggs, dumplings, pizza, and rice bowls.

3. Ingredients, Dietary Needs & Responsible Food Information

  1. Are Agni Pickles vegan?

Agni Pickles presents its products as 100% plant-based. Check the current product page and label if you have a strict dietary requirement, because recipes and ingredients can change.

  1. Are Agni products gluten-free?

Do not assume every jar is gluten-free. Asafoetida, also called hing, can contain refined wheat flour as a carrier, so review the ingredient and allergen information on the individual product before purchasing.

  1. Are Agni products nut-free?

Most products do not contain nuts, but they are prepared in a kitchen where allergen cross-contact may be possible. Read the product label if a nut allergy is a concern.

  1. Do Agni products contain preservatives, artificial colours, flavours, or acid regulators?

No. Agni states that its products are made without preservatives, artificial colours, artificial flavours, or acid regulators.

  1. Which allergens should I look for?

Relevant allergens can include mustard oil or mustard seeds, asafoetida that may use a wheat carrier, sesame, and soy in specific products. The product page and physical jar label are the authority for the exact item you are eating.

  1. Do Agni pickles contain mustard?

Several traditional Agni pickle recipes use mustard oil and/or mustard seeds. If you have a mustard allergy, review the exact jar label before consuming any product.

  1. Does Agni Chilli Oil contain soy or sesame?

The current Chilli Oil product page lists sesame seeds and soy sauce. Treat it as containing those ingredients unless the current product label says otherwise.

  1. Are all Agni Recipes vegan because the jars are vegan?

No. The jars are plant-based, but a recipe can include dairy or other ingredients. Current recipe content includes items such as paneer and yogurt, so check each recipe’s ingredient list and dietary details.

  1. Are Indian pickles always fermented or probiotic?

No. Indian pickles can be preserved in different ways, including salt, oil, acidity, and curing. Agni does not market its jars as probiotic foods, so do not assume a live-culture or digestive-health claim from the word “pickle.”

  1. Can I rely on Agni food content for medical or digestive advice?

No. Agni’s recipes, ingredient stories, and Journal are for food inspiration and cultural learning. For allergies, medical conditions, or a therapeutic diet, use the product label and seek advice from a qualified health professional.

4. Storage, Jar Quality & Food Safety

  1. Do Agni products need refrigeration?

After opening, refrigerate the jar to protect freshness and flavour. For oil-based pickles, keep the product covered by its oil where applicable.

  1. What is the shelf life of an unopened jar?

The current FAQ states a 12-month best-before period from the production date printed on the packaging. Always follow the date and storage instructions on your own jar.

  1. How long does a jar last after opening?

For best quality, use it within a few months after opening while refrigerating it and using clean, dry utensils. The exact best-before date and label directions remain the primary guide.

  1. How should I store an unopened jar?

Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, move it to the refrigerator and keep the rim and lid clean.

  1. Why is there oil at the top of some pickle jars?

Oil separation is natural in traditional oil-based achar. The oil helps carry spice flavour and protect the pickle; it is not a sign that the jar is defective.

  1. Is it normal for colour, texture, or heat to vary from jar to jar?

Yes. Real ingredients and small-batch preparation can cause modest changes in colour, spice level, and texture. These natural differences do not automatically mean that a product is unsafe.

  1. What is the best way to serve the pickle?

Always use a clean, dry spoon. Avoid introducing moisture, crumbs, or food residue into the jar, because this can affect freshness and shelf life.

  1. Should I stir the jar before serving?

If oil or spices have settled naturally, gently stir the contents with a clean, dry spoon before serving. Do not introduce water or a used utensil into the jar.

  1. Can I leave an opened jar on the counter or in sunlight?

No. Refrigerate after opening and keep the jar away from direct heat and sunlight. Unopened jars should also be stored cool and dry.

  1. When should I stop eating a jar and contact Agni Pickles?

Do not consume a product with visible mould, a leaking or compromised seal, unexpected swelling, or a distinctly off smell. Keep the jar and contact Agni Pickles with photographs and your order information if the concern relates to a recent delivery.

5. Serving, Cooking & Pairing Indian Flavours with World Food

  1. What foods pair well with Agni Pickles?

Try them with parathas, rotis, naan, dal-rice, khichdi, curries, samosas, pakoras, chaat, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, grilled dishes, and savoury platters. Each product page also gives its most natural pairings.

  1. How can I use Agni Chilli Oil?

Drizzle it over noodles, dumplings, momos, eggs, fried rice, soups, pizza, fries, or grilled food. Start with a small spoonful and build the heat to your taste.

  1. Can I cook with the oil from a pickle jar?

Yes. Pickle oil can add spice and savoury depth to curries, marinades, rice, vegetables, sandwiches, and noodle dishes. Use it as a flavouring oil, not as a neutral frying oil.

  1. Which jars work best with parathas, dal-rice, and khichdi?

Mango, Garlic, Green Chilli, Lime & Asafoetida, and CCT Pickle are all strong traditional choices. Choose Mango for classic tang, Garlic for richness, Green Chilli for heat, Lime & Hing for citrusy aroma, or CCT for a winter-vegetable bite.

  1. Which product is best with samosas, pakoras, chaat, and pani puri?

Tamarind Chutney is the most natural choice because its sweet-and-sour tamarind and jaggery profile is made for Indian snacks and chaat. Add a small amount of Chilli Oil if you want an extra layer of heat.

  1. What can I serve with breakfast or eggs?

Mango, CCT, Green Chilli, and Sweet Lime Pickle can brighten parathas, omelettes, and breakfast plates. Chilli Oil also works well on fried eggs, scrambled eggs, and breakfast sandwiches.

  1. Which Agni products work with noodles, dumplings, and rice bowls?

Chilli Oil is the clearest match for noodles, ramen, dumplings, momos, fried rice, and rice bowls. Use one small spoon at a time because it is a concentrated condiment.

  1. Can I use Agni products in sandwiches, burgers, wraps, or tacos?

Yes. Garlic Pickle adds savoury depth, CCT adds texture and tang, Mango adds classic spice, Tamarind Chutney brings sweet-sour contrast, and Chilli Oil adds heat. Use them as a condiment layer rather than overfilling the sandwich.

  1. What should I use with grilled vegetables, barbecue, or roasted foods?

Garlic, Mango, Green Chilli, and CCT Pickle all pair well with grilled or roasted foods. Chilli Oil can be drizzled over the finished dish, and Tamarind Chutney adds a sweet-tangy contrast to smoky flavours.

  1. Can Agni products go on a cheese board or savoury platter?

Yes. Serve small spoonfuls of Mango, Sweet Lime, CCT Pickle, or Tamarind Chutney beside cheese, crackers, roasted nuts, and grilled vegetables. Their sweet, sour, spicy, and savoury notes give rich foods a lively contrast.

  1. How much pickle or chilli oil should I serve at first?

Start with about one teaspoon per person, especially with Green Chilli Pickle or Chilli Oil. You can always add more, but a small serving lets the meal stay balanced.

6. The Agni Recipes & Ingredients Guide

  1. What is The Agni Recipes page?

It is the website’s home-cooking inspiration hub. It groups recipes by category, connects dishes with a relevant Agni product, and leads to full individual recipe pages.

  1. Which recipe categories are available?

The current recipe hub shows Breakfast; Snacks & Appetizers; Quick Meals; Traditional Punjabi; Main Dishes; Dips & Sauces; Fusion Recipes; South Indian; and Lunchbox Recipes.

  1. Why does a recipe category sometimes show no recipes?

A category can be live before its first recipe is published. It is a place reserved for new content, not necessarily an error or a broken link.

  1. Do the recipe pages provide complete instructions?

Each individual recipe page is designed to give the ingredients, a clear method, and serving ideas. Read the full recipe page rather than relying only on the category-card preview.

  1. Will a recipe tell me its preparation time, cooking time, servings, and spice level?

Yes. The recipe structure includes prep time, cook time, serves, and spice level so you can decide whether it suits your meal and schedule.

  1. Are Agni Recipes vegetarian?

The currently published recipe content focuses on vegetarian dishes, but not every recipe is vegan. Check the individual ingredients because some recipes use dairy, including paneer or yogurt.

  1. Can I find the Agni product recommended for a recipe?

Yes. Each recipe can link to the relevant Agni product, so you can see the intended pairing and shop it if you wish.

  1. Do recipe pages include a grocery list?

Where it is provided, the recipe page can include a grocery list of linked ingredient entries. Use the individual recipe page for the final quantities and method.

  1. What is The Agni Ingredients page?

It is an educational ingredient library that explores the real produce, spices, oils, pulses, dairy, and pantry items used across Indian cooking and Agni recipe ideas. It is not a substitute for a product’s exact label or allergen statement.

7. The Brand, Journal & Sensory Stories

  1. Who makes Agni Pickles?

Agni Pickles is a women-led, women-operated Canadian business. The brand centres family cooking, craftsmanship, and Punjabi food heritage.

  1. What inspired Agni Pickles?

It grew from family recipes and the cooking knowledge passed from grandmother to mother to daughter. The brand treats each jar as a continuation of family, memory, and Punjabi kitchen tradition.

  1. Why is the brand called “Agni”?

Agni represents warmth, fire, flavour, and the heart of cooking. It fits the bold spice, care, and emotional connection behind the brand.

  1. Where are Agni Pickles made?

The products are handcrafted in Canada using a blend of domestic and imported ingredients chosen for authenticity and quality.

  1. Does Agni Pickles attend local markets or festivals?

Yes. The website says Agni Pickles participates in local markets, cultural festivals, and community events across Ontario. Follow the brand’s social channels for the newest event details.

  1. What is The Agni Journal?

The Agni Journal is the blog area for pickle culture, food stories, and articles such as mango pickle, amla pickle, chilli-and-ginger pickle, and general pickle topics.

  1. What are Agni Sensory Stories?

Sensory Stories are short heritage-led chapters about recipes, rituals, family memory, and the feelings behind the jars. They are storytelling content, not product instructions or medical advice.

  1. What does “Har Swad Mein Peediyon Ki Virasat” mean?

It means “a heritage of generations in every taste.” The line expresses Agni Pickles’ promise that family knowledge and Punjabi tradition live on in every jar.

8. Agni Loyalty Circle, Rewards & Passport

  1. How does the Agni Loyalty Circle work?

Create an account, earn Agni Points through eligible actions, and use points for available rewards and member perks. The current program also has VIP status tiers.

  1. How many points do I get for joining the Agni Family?

The current Loyalty Circle page advertises 250 Agni Points for joining the Agni Family. You need an account so the points can be associated with you.

  1. How many points do I earn when I make a purchase?

The current program advertises 1 Agni Point for every $1 spent on eligible purchases.

  1. Can I earn points for my birthday, referrals, reviews, or other activities?

The current Loyalty Circle page advertises 200 points for a birthday, 50 points for a qualifying referral, and 50 points for a review. The Loyalty Terms also allow points for eligible promotions and Agni Passport completion. Referral rewards require a legitimate referral that results in a qualifying purchase.

  1. How do I redeem Agni Points?

Redeem points through the available Loyalty Circle rewards at checkout, subject to the current reward conditions. The displayed rewards currently begin at 100 points for a discount-style Spice Reward.

  1. What are the Agni VIP tiers?

The current tiers are Bronze at 0 points, Silver at 500 points, Gold at 1,000 points, and Platinum at 5,000 points. Each tier can offer different member perks.

  1. What is the Agni Passport?

The Agni Passport is a long-term flavour-discovery reward. Customers who purchase 8 different eligible Agni products may qualify for a bonus, subject to manual review and order-history verification by the Agni team.

  1. Do Agni Points have cash value or can I transfer them?

No. The Loyalty Terms state that Agni Points have no cash value and cannot be transferred, exchanged, or redeemed for cash.

  1. Do points expire or can rewards change?

The terms allow Agni Pickles to change point values, reward structures, and qualifying conditions. The current terms do not promise one fixed universal point-expiry period, so check the latest Loyalty Terms before relying on a future reward.

  1. How can I keep up with Loyalty Circle updates?

Keep your account active, check the Loyalty Circle and Loyalty Terms pages, join the Agni email list, and follow the brand’s social channels for current reward announcements.

9. Wholesale, Distribution, Foodservice & Business Enquiries

  1. Do you offer bulk or wholesale orders?

Yes. Agni Pickles welcomes wholesale, retailer, gifting, foodservice, and bulk-order enquiries through its Wholesale & Distributor Enquiries page.

  1. Can I stock Agni Pickles in my store or café?

Yes. The brand welcomes conversations with specialty retailers, grocery stores, cafés, and other food businesses that want authentic Punjabi pickles and condiments.

  1. Do you offer custom gifting or event orders?

Custom gifting and event orders may be available for weddings, corporate gifting, festivals, and other special occasions. Send a business enquiry with your timing, quantity, and product needs.

  1. Do you supply restaurants and foodservice businesses?

Yes. Restaurants, cafés, caterers, and other foodservice businesses can submit an enquiry. Share how you plan to use the products and which flavours you are interested in.

  1. Who should use the Wholesale & Distributor Enquiries form?

Use it if you represent a retail, distribution, or foodservice business and want to explore a business relationship with Agni Pickles. It is not a consumer checkout form.

  1. What is the difference between wholesale, distribution, and foodservice on the form?

Choose Wholesale if you want to buy for resale in your own store; Distribution if you serve a wider network of retailers; and Foodservice if you want products for a restaurant, café, catering, or menu use. Agni Pickles will review the right next step with you.

  1. What information do I need to submit a business enquiry?

The form asks for your interest type, business name, contact name, business email, phone number, business type, city, province or state, country, and a short description of what you need. Required fields are marked with an asterisk.

  1. Can I select the products, territory, and estimated monthly volume I want?

Yes. The form lets you select one or more products, describe the territory you serve, and choose an estimated monthly order volume. You can also select “Not sure yet” if you need help choosing products.

  1. What happens after I submit a wholesale or distributor enquiry?

Agni Pickles reviews your business, customers, and territory, then follows up about the appropriate next step. Submitting the form begins a conversation; it does not automatically approve a partnership or confirm pricing.

  1. How will my business enquiry information be used?

The form says Agni Pickles will use the submitted details only to respond to that business enquiry. You must also agree that Agni Pickles may contact you about it before submitting the form.

  1. Who do I contact for wholesale, foodservice, distributor, or corporate-order questions?

Use the Wholesale & Distributor Enquiries form or email cs@agnipickles.ca. Include your business name, city, business type, products of interest, expected quantity, and the type of partnership you are looking for.