“Consumption of such products could result in unhealthy weight gain and obesity. Obesity could result in the development of diabetes, cardiac issues, and many other diseases. It will also aggravate the existing diseases. Hence, it is important that we keep a check on consumption of such products,” mentioned Dr Ramesh Okay, a Bengaluru-based doctor.

With many manufacturers providing processed meals at decrease costs, lower-income teams have additionally began consuming such meals merchandise, mentioned Dr Manasi S, a researcher on the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC).

“On the ground, we have observed that kids of construction labourers, and migrant workers also consume processed food and this is resulting in health complications,” she mentioned.

The report additionally identified that in India, there isn’t any agreed definition of what constitutes ‘healthy food’ and therefore corporations resort to utilizing their very own definitions that aren’t essentially aligned with one another or with (inter)nationally recognised requirements.

“A transparent definition of processed foods and Nutrition Program Management (NPM) would help align the sector. The government, in consultation with other stakeholders, can finalise the establishment of a clear and transparent definition of processed foods (that includes thresholds for salt, sugar, and fat), and a nutrient profiling system,” the report recommended.

Pointing out that 23 per cent of males and 24 per cent of girls within the age group of 15-49 are overweight in India, Professor Krishna Raj from ISEC mentioned India ought to put in place strict meals security rules and monitor the standard of merchandise.

“For instance, Cambodia is imposing higher taxes on food that is high in salt and saturated fat to reduce obesity. Given the high rates of obesity, India should also look at junk food tax and such measures,” he recommended. The report additionally revealed that many corporations are putting in measures to enhance the vitamin profile of their merchandise.

“Four companies showed evidence of having a formal affordability approach or strategy to make “healthier” meals (in response to the corporate’s definition of wholesome) extra obtainable coupled with a definition of “lower-income consumers” in India. Five corporations confirmed proof of getting clearly outlined workforce vitamin packages in place, of which two corporations embody measurable targets,” the report famous.