Changing dietary habits in India

24 Apr Changing dietary habits in India

THIS ARTICLE COVERS ‘DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS’ AND THE TOPIC DETAILS “Changing dietary habits in India”. THIS TOPIC IS RELEVANT IN THE “Social justice” SECTION OF GS2 IN THE UPSC CSE EXAM.

Why in the news?

• India, like many nations worldwide, is experiencing a significant “nutrition transition.” This transition is marked by rapid changes in dietary habits, with a noticeable departure from traditional, fiber-rich diets towards more Westernized eating patterns. Urbanization and economic growth have spurred this shift, leading to a surge in the consumption of packaged and processed foods, commonly known as “junk foods.”
• These processed foods are often nutritionally deficient, lacking essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber while being high in calories, fats, salt, and sugar. Classified as High in Fats, Salts, and Sugars (HFSS) foods, scientific research highlights the adverse health effects associated with their consumption. From weakening the body’s immune defenses against infections to increasing blood pressure, spiking blood sugar levels, causing weight gain, and even elevating the risk of cancer, the detrimental impacts of junk food on health are well-documented.

According to a study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and published in 2023, the burden of metabolic disorders in India is alarmingly significant. The study reveals that:

• Approximately 11% of the population in India is affected by diabetes.
• Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects around 35% of the population.
• Nearly 40% of individuals are grappling with abdominal obesity.

These findings underscore the pervasive nature of metabolic disorders in India, highlighting the urgent need for effective strategies to address these health challenges.

Government efforts

• In 2013, the Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark ruling, asserting that any food item posing a hazard to public health infringes upon the fundamental right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. This ruling laid a solid constitutional foundation for protecting consumers from unhealthy foods.

In alignment with this principle and recognizing the paramount importance of promoting public health, the Government of India has undertaken various initiatives to encourage healthier dietary habits and active lifestyles. Key among these initiatives are Eat Right India, the Fit India Movement, and the Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition (Poshan) 2.0.

Acknowledging the vulnerability of children to the advertising of unhealthy foods, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) introduced the Food Safety and Standards (Safe food and balanced diets for children in school) Regulations in 2020. These regulations impose restrictions on the sale of High Fat, Salt, and Sugar (HFSS) foods in school canteens, mess premises, hostel kitchens, or within a 50-meter radius of school campuses.

Furthermore, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has recently taken action against a leading health drink company, issuing notices to evaluate and withdraw misleading advertisements, packaging, and labels that falsely portray the product as a “health drink.” The commission cited concerns over the product’s high sugar content and its potential adverse impact on children’s health.

Negative Impact of HFSS food 

• Obesity: HFSS foods are typically calorie-dense and low in nutrients, which can contribute to weight gain and obesity when consumed regularly.

• Cardiovascular Disease: The high levels of fats, salt, and sugar in these foods can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.

• Type 2 Diabetes: Regular consumption of HFSS foods can lead to insulin resistance and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to elevated blood sugar levels.

• Dental Health Issues: Sugary snacks and drinks contribute to tooth decay and cavities, leading to poor dental health.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: HFSS foods often lack essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, leading to nutritional deficiencies and poor overall health.

• Digestive Problems: Processed foods with high levels of fats and preservatives can disrupt digestion and lead to gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

• Weakened Immune System: The consumption of HFSS foods has been linked to a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

• Mental Health Impacts: Studies have suggested a link between the consumption of HFSS foods and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

What needs to be done?

• Definition of HFSS Foods: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) should expedite the process of defining High Fat, Salt, and Sugar (HFSS) foods specifically tailored to the Indian context. This clear definition will facilitate effective regulation and enforcement of restrictions on the sale and consumption of such foods.

• Front-of-Pack Labeling (FOPL): Implementing FOPL on food packaging can empower consumers to make informed choices about their dietary intake. Clear and easily understandable labels highlighting key nutritional information, such as fat, sugar, and salt content, should be prominently displayed on the front of food packages.

• Stricter Compliance Monitoring: Regulatory bodies like the FSSAI and the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights should enhance monitoring mechanisms to ensure strict compliance with food safety regulations, especially in school environments. Regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance can deter the sale and promotion of unhealthy foods to children.

• Educational Campaigns: Launching public awareness campaigns to educate consumers, especially parents and children, about the health risks associated with HFSS foods can foster healthier dietary habits. These campaigns can emphasize the importance of choosing nutritious foods and the long-term benefits of a balanced diet.

• Promotion of Healthy Alternatives: Encouraging the availability and promotion of healthier food options, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can steer consumers away from HFSS foods. This can be done through subsidies, incentives for food producers, and partnerships with the food industry to develop and market healthier alternatives.

• Collaboration with Stakeholders: Collaboration between government agencies, healthcare professionals, educators, food manufacturers, and civil society organizations is essential for implementing comprehensive strategies to tackle the issue of unhealthy foods effectively. Working together can leverage diverse expertise and resources to create sustainable solutions.

By implementing these measures collectively, policymakers can create an environment conducive to healthier dietary choices and mitigate the adverse effects of HFSS foods on public health, particularly among children.

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Ankit Kumar

Hello friends, I am Ankit Kumar here at Plutus Ias to provide you with some really insightful content that will help you prepare for UPSC. Here is a brief introduction about me
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