Just Like Cigarette Packets, Samosas & Jalebis To Have Health Warnings?

Due to the alarming increase in the obesity rate in India, the Health Ministry has reportedly ordered all health institutions to install “oil and sugar” warning boards and posters, highlighting the hidden sugar and oil content in popular Indian snacks like Jalebi and Samosa, similar to the warning signs on cigarette packs.

According to media reports, the Health Ministry is taking this step as an initial measure in spreading awareness among people regarding the dangers of eating oil and sugar content. It was stated that the goal is to place junk food risks in public consciousness in a similar way, like the tobacco warnings on cigarette packets.

These boards will be placed at hotels, cafeterias, and government institutions, warning about the health risks of excessive eating of everyday snacks like Samosas, Jalebis, Vada Pav, and Pakoras.

As per estimations, over 44.9 crore Indians could be overweight or obese by 2050, standing as the second-highest obese population in the world, only next to the United States. Apparently, one out of five urban adults is either overweight or obese, which is a concerning factor.

The increase in childhood obesity due to poor diet and low physical activity has also been a concern in India. Thus, the government decided to take this step to spread awareness. This move will not ban any food items, but will create awareness among people regarding the risks of eating them.