India’s Transition to Junk Foods: A Threat to Health and Well-being

India is undergoing a significant dietary transition characterized by a shift towards processed and high-calorie Western-style diets, often referred to as “junk foods.” These foods are low in essential nutrients but high in calories, fats, salt, sugar, and preservatives. Scientific evidence has linked junk food consumption to weakened immune defenses, increased blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, weight gain, and increased cancer risk. This dietary shift coincides with economic growth, urbanisation, and increased consumption of packaged and processed foods. The food safety and standards authority of India (FSSAI) has released regulations restricting the sale of HFSS foods in schools to protect children from their harmful impact. Despite policy intentions to ensure safe food environments there is still much work to be done. Clear definitions of HFSS foods and effective implementation of regulations are crucial. Front-of-Pack Labelling (FOPL) can help consumers make informed choices. Subsidies for healthy foods and behavioural change campaigns targeting children and young adults can promote healthy dietary habits. India needs a “Jan Andolan” or people’s movement for healthy and nutritionally diverse diets, supported by sincere policy interventions that help Indians exercise their right to make informed food choices.

Scroll to Top