India, Sept. 8 -- For Dr Nandita Iyer, food is as much about culture and place as it is about nutrition. Fresh off being named Organic Pioneer of the Year at the Delicious Dining Awards by Travel+Leisure India & South Asia, the multi-hyphenate reflects on why seasonality, regional traditions, and scientific thinking all have a place at the table.

Excerpts From The Interview With Dr Nandita Iyer T+L India: At a time when "organic" has become both a movement and a marketing buzzword, what does the word mean to you? Dr Nandita Iyer: The word "organic" today sits in a slightly uncomfortable place. It is both a meaningful philosophy and an overused marketing label. I'm also wary of how "organic" is often positioned as morally superior or nutr...