The founders entered the tank with confidence, seeking ₹50 lakh for 5% equity, valuing their company at ₹10 crore.
At first, the sharks were intrigued, but things quickly took a turn when they started questioning the science behind the product.
Vineeta Singh was Excited Yet Hesitant
Shark Vineeta liked the packaging but admitted she was nervous about trying the pills. “Darr lag raha hai, par mann bhi kar raha hai khane ka.” Her hesitation mirrored a potential challenge for the business—consumer fear of unknown side effects.
Anupam Mittal was Concerned About the 3rd Party Clinical Proof
Shark Anupam was direct and critical, immediately asking about clinical trials. The founders claimed they had spent ₹50 lakh on research, but they failed to provide strong third-party evidence. Anupam wasn’t convinced and compared the product to Apple Cider Vinegar, which makes similar claims but is widely available and natural.
His biggest concern? The product was making big promises without sufficient proof. “If this actually works, it’s a multi-trillion dollar opportunity. But I need evidence.”
Peyush Bansal Worried About Safety Risks
Shark Peyush took a more emotional approach, questioning potential harm to consumers.
When asked about side effects, Dr. Lalitha admitted that 20% of users might experience gut discomfort for the first few days.
Peyush immediately backed out, stating, “If something happens to someone, I won’t be able to forgive myself.”
Kunal Bahl Comparing It to the ‘Ozempic Revolution’
Shark Kunal referenced the global rise of weight-loss medications like Ozempic, asking if the founders were prepared for the scrutiny that comes with selling health products.
Would Moderate be able to survive in a market where consumers and regulators are highly skeptical of diet pills?
His concern wasn’t just about effectiveness, but about consumer perception.
One by one, sharks dropped out of the deal:
- Shark Vineeta Singh didn’t think social media advertising could overcome consumer fear.
- Shark Peyush Bansal didn’t want to invest in something that could cause harm.
- Shark Anupam Mittal advised them to conduct third-party clinical trials first.
It seemed like the pitch was over—until shark Aman Gupta stepped in with the first offer.
Shark Aman Gupta saw potential in the business, backing the experience and credibility of Dr. Lalitha Palle. He offered ₹50 lakh for 2.5% equity.
Shark Kunal Bahl made a bigger move, offering ₹1 crore for 5% equity.
The founders countered, leading to a final deal, ₹1 crore for 5% equity, split between sharks Kunal Bahl and Aman Gupta. This gave Moderate a valuation of ₹20 crore, double what they originally asked for.
