Synopsis
The Economic Survey 2024-25 reveals that the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods in India is contributing to chronic diseases and mental health issues. It proposes a health tax to mitigate these concerns and emphasizes the need for awareness and regulation.Key Takeaways
- Rising UPF consumption linked to health issues.
- Proposed health tax to reduce UPF intake.
- UPFs characterized by high sugar and unhealthy fats.
- Need for regulations on misleading food marketing.
- Promotion of healthy, local food options recommended.
New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) The rising intake of ultra-processed foods (UPF)—high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats while lacking essential nutrients—in India is contributing to various chronic illnesses and mental health challenges, as highlighted in the Economic Survey 2024-25.
Presented in Parliament on Friday by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the survey also advocated for a 'health tax' aimed at curbing UPF consumption.
"From sugary breakfast cereals, soft drinks, and energy beverages to fried chicken and packaged snacks, ultra-processed foods have firmly established themselves in our daily diets," the survey remarked.
The NOVA food classification system categorizes UPFs as ready-to-eat items that are industrially formulated using components derived from food. To improve flavor, these products often contain additives like preservatives, sweeteners, and emulsifiers.
As noted in the survey, factors such as convenience, extreme palatability, low cost, extended shelf life, and aggressive marketing have created a favorable environment for the growth of UPF industries in India.
Data from WHO India indicates that between 2011 and 2021, the retail sales value in the UPF sector surged at a CAGR of 13.7%.
The survey referenced studies showing that the trend towards UPF consumption exposes individuals to numerous negative health effects, including obesity, chronic inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and mental health disorders.
Due to their lower fiber content, UPFs are linked to weight gain and obesity among both adults and children, which are precursors to various health complications.
The survey highlighted how the extreme palatability of these foods, combined with marketing tactics that include deceptive advertisements and celebrity endorsements, has escalated the UPF market in India. Frequently, unhealthy packaged foods are promoted as if they are nutritious.
"Addressing misleading nutrition claims and information regarding UPFs is crucial and must be examined closely," the survey stated. It also underscored the necessity of establishing standards for acceptable salt and sugar levels and ensuring that UPF brands comply with these regulations.
Furthermore, the survey proposed imposing taxes on UPFs to discourage their consumption.
"Implementing a higher tax rate on UPFs could be considered as a form of 'health tax' specifically targeting brands/products that engage in advertising," suggested the survey.
It also recommended raising awareness about the harmful effects of UPFs and promoting healthy eating choices by incorporating this knowledge into school curricula.
Simultaneously, it emphasized the importance of advocating for local and seasonal produce and providing positive subsidies for healthy options such as whole foods, millets, fruits, and vegetables.
