New Delhi: Nutrition Advocacy in Public Interest (NAPi), a national think tank of independent public health and nutrition experts, has commended the Economic Survey 2024-25 for recognizing the urgent need to regulate ultra-processed foods (UPFs) high in fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS).
The survey highlights the rising health risks associated with UPFs, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health issues. It recommends mandatory front-of-pack warning labels (FOPL), marketing restrictions, and higher GST rates on UPFs to curb consumption.
Key findings from the Economic Survey 2024-25:
• Surge in UPF consumption: Retail sales of UPFs in India grew at a CAGR of 13.7% from 2011 to 2021, reaching $37.9 billion in 2019.
• Rising household spending: 9.6% of rural and 10.64% of urban food budgets go towards beverages, refreshments, and processed foods.
• Health risks linked to UPFs: Studies link increased UPF intake to 32 health conditions, including cancer, metabolic disorders, and mental health issues.
• Global best practices: Countries like Mexico, Chile, and the UK have successfully implemented taxation, warning labels, and advertising bans on unhealthy foods.
• Failure of self-regulation: A 22-country study found corporate self-regulation ineffective in curbing UPF marketing.
NAPi’s Key Recommendations:
1. Mandatory FOPL for HFSS foods to enhance consumer awareness.
2. Strict advertising restrictions, especially for children under 18, through amendments to the Advertisement Code.
3. Clear definition of UPFs/HFSS aligned with ICMR-NIN dietary guidelines.
4. Formation of a dedicated monitoring body to oversee implementation.
5. Budgetary allocation to support these measures.
NAPi urges parliamentarians, the Parliamentary Health Committee, and the Ministry of Health to act swiftly on these recommendations to safeguard public health.
