• UGI USER
  • Apr 24, 2024
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TOSS OUT THE JUNK FOOD, BRING BACK THE HEALTHY FOOD PLATE

Source:

GS-II: Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.

Why in the news?

Rising concern over unhealthy dietary habits, fueled by the transition to processed junk foods, prompts calls for regulatory measures.

source:possiblein

About Tackling India’s Nutrition Transition: Prioritising Health Over Convenience

Introduction:

  • India is amidst a profound “nutrition transition,” marked by a shift from traditional, fibre-rich diets to processed, calorie-dense Western-style foods.
  • Rapid economic growth and urbanisation have fueled this change, leading to increased consumption of packaged and processed foods, commonly referred to as “junk foods.”
  • These foods, although convenient, lack essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals while being high in calories, fats, salt, and sugar, posing significant health risks.
What Is Junk Food?

  • Unbalanced diet: High in simple carbs, refined sugar, salt, saturated fat.
  • Low nutritional value: Processed extensively, lacks vital nutrients, fibre, water.
  • Convenient, cheap, readily available.
  • Healthy food: Maintains weight, provides essential nutrients, promotes good health.

About National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013:

  • Background: 2013 Supreme Court ruling addresses concerns on unhealthy food effects.
  • Constitutional Basis: Grounded in Article 21, right to life includes access to safe, nutritious food.
  • Implications for Food Regulation: Increased pressure on FSSAI for stricter regulations, labelling, marketing restrictions.

National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013:

  • Represents a shift to rights-based food security, covering up to 75% rural and 50% urban population.
  • Objective:
  • Ensures access to quality food for a dignified life, aligning with UN SDG Goal 2.
  • Entitlements:
  • Subsidised food grains provided under TPDS, with wheat at Rs. 2/kg, rice at Rs. 3/kg, coarse grains at Re. 1/kg.
  • Nutritional support for women, children, including maternity benefits and free meals.
  • Implementation:
  • Implemented nationwide, covering all states and UTs.
  • Salient Features:
  • Coverage determined by NITI Aayog based on consumption expenditure survey.
  • Empowers women as household heads, ensures transparency in PDS records.
  • Beneficiaries:
  • AAY households, PHH, including widows, disabled, elderly, and those below the poverty line.
  • PHH is entitled to subsidised food grains, aiding poverty alleviation efforts.

What is “High in Fats, Salts, and Sugars.”HFSS Foods?

  • Definition: HFSS stands for “High in Fats, Salts, and Sugars.”
  • HFSS foods are those that contain excessive levels of fats, salts (sodium), and sugars, which are considered detrimental to health when consumed in large quantities.
  • Examples: Sugary snacks,Savoury snacks, Sugary drinks, Processed meats, Convenience foods.
  • Health Implications: Consumption of HFSS foods has been linked to various adverse health outcomes, including:
  • Obesity: HFSS foods are calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain and obesity when consumed excessively, especially in the absence of physical activity.
  • Cardiovascular diseases: High intake of fats, salts (sodium), and sugars can increase the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and stroke.
  • Type 2 diabetes: Excessive consumption of sugary foods and drinks can lead to insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes over time.
  • Dental problems: Sugary snacks and drinks can promote tooth decay and cavities, particularly when consumed frequently without proper oral hygiene.

What is the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)?

  • Autonomous statutory body under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
  • Governed by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
  • Headquarters: Delhi.
  • Regulatory body ensuring food safety and standards.
  • Formulates regulations, enforces compliance, and promotes public awareness.
  • Monitors food quality, labelling, and hygiene practices nationwide
  • FSSAI Key Processes:
  • Set food standards
  • Develop safe practices
  • Licence businesses
  • Ensure compliance
  • Test food
  • Train and build capacity
  • Citizen outreach

Understanding the Shift in Dietary Patterns

  • Health Implications of Junk Food Consumption
  • Scientific evidence highlights the detrimental effects of junk food on health, including weakened immunity, elevated blood pressure, increased blood sugar levels, weight gain, and heightened cancer risks.
  • Common examples of junk foods prevalent in India include cookies, cakes, chips, sugary drinks, instant noodles, and canned fruits.
  • The surge in lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, underscores the grave health consequences of unhealthy dietary habits.
  • Influence of Advertising on Food Choices
  • Aggressive marketing tactics targeting younger consumers promote the allure of “tasty” and “affordable” comfort foods, contributing to their widespread consumption.
  • Studies reveal alarming statistics, with a significant percentage of children consuming packaged foods and sweetened beverages regularly.
  • The expansion of the ultra-processed food industry in India reflects the success of these marketing strategies.

About the Government Initiatives and Regulatory Measures:

  • Recognizing the urgency to address the rising health concerns, the Government of India has launched initiatives like Eat Right India, the Fit India Movement, and the Poshan scheme to promote healthy diets and active lifestyles.
  • Regulatory actions, such as the Food Safety and Standards (Safe food and balanced diets for children in schools) Regulations, 2020, aim to restrict the sale of unhealthy foods in school premises.
  • Recent interventions by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights highlight efforts to curb misleading advertisements targeting children.
  • Subsidies for Healthy Foods and Behavioral Change Campaigns
  • Positive subsidies for healthy foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can enhance their affordability and accessibility, promoting greater consumption.
  • Behavioural change campaigns targeting children and young adults can raise awareness about the health risks of junk foods and promote mindful eating practices.

Challenges and Strategies for Effective Implementation:

  • Despite policy interventions, challenges persist in implementing measures to curb junk food consumption effectively.
  • Key strategies include implementing front-of-package nutrition labelling to inform consumers about the nutritional content of foods.
  • A proposed Indian Nutrition Rating system aims to provide star ratings based on the overall nutritional profile of packaged foods, although concerns regarding its effectiveness and voluntary nature remain.

Way Forward /A Call to Action:

  • Urgent measures are needed to address the escalating health crisis fueled by unhealthy dietary habits.
  • Clear definitions of unhealthy foods, robust regulatory frameworks, and educational campaigns are essential to empower consumers to make informed choices.
  • A concerted effort, involving government, industry, and civil society, is crucial to promote healthier diets and ensure the well-being of future generations.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, junk food, while tempting, lacks essential nutrients and contributes to health issues. Moderation is crucial, as these foods can be addictive. Occasional indulgence is a balanced and sustainable approach for overall health.

Source: The Hindu

Mains Practice Question:

” Analyse the factors contributing to this nutrition transition and its implications for public health. Evaluate the effectiveness of government initiatives and regulatory measures in promoting healthy dietary habits. What additional strategies can be adopted to address the rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases associated with unhealthy diets?