New Delhi, 19 November (Daily Kiran). India is witnessing an alarming rise in the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), leading to major shifts in eating habits and a sharp increase in obesity and diabetes cases. These findings were highlighted in three research papers published on Wednesday in The Lancet.
UPFs typically contain high levels of fat, sugar and salt, along with additives such as stabilisers, emulsifiers, colours and artificial flavours. These products significantly increase the risk of obesity, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, depression and premature death.
According to the research compiled by 43 international experts, retail sales of UPFs in India surged from USD 0.9 billion in 2006 to nearly USD 38 billion in 2019 — a nearly 40-fold increase in just 13 years.
Supermarket shelves are now packed with packaged snacks and beverages such as chips, biscuits, noodles, sugary drinks and breakfast cereals. Aggressive advertising is heavily influencing children and young people, driving widespread consumption.
The study found that rising UPF intake has coincided with a sharp increase in obesity rates. Among men, obesity rose from 12% to 23%, while among women it increased from around 15% to 24%.
The series also examined the aggressive marketing strategies used by UPF companies to boost consumption.
Dr Arun Gupta, paediatrician and co-author of the research papers, said, “Our regulations are not effective enough to curb marketing. India must act urgently to reduce UPF consumption and aim to prevent obesity and diabetes in the coming years. Since UPF sales are rising fastest in India and negatively affecting health, the country must treat UPFs as a major public health concern.”
The authors called for swift, coordinated public health measures to limit UPF production, marketing and consumption, rather than relying solely on consumer behaviour. They also emphasised the need to improve access to healthy food.
Professor Srinath Reddy, Chancellor, PHFI University of Public Health Sciences, said, “India needs strong regulations mandating disclosure of UPF production, marketing and ingredients. Front-of-pack warning labels should clearly inform consumers about harmful levels of salt, sugar and fat.”
He added that advertisements portraying UPFs as addictive can fuel multiple health problems. Therefore, restrictions on UPF advertising and sponsorships — especially celebrity endorsements — are essential.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
