Satyanarayan Mohapatra, Bhubaneswar, 15 May 2024
India’s dietary landscape is evolving, and the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) has recently taken a significant step by updating its dietary guidelines. These guidelines aim to promote healthier eating habits and address concerns related to sugar consumption. In this article, we delve into the key points of the new guidelines and their implications.
The ICMR-NIN’s guidelines emphasize the importance of avoiding added sugars for children less than two years of age. This recommendation aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2015 guidelines, which advocate for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life. Beyond that, introducing solid foods should focus on nutrient-rich options rather than sugary treats. By limiting sugar intake during this critical developmental phase, India aims to set a foundation for lifelong health.
For individuals over two years old, the guidelines recommend restricting sugar consumption to just 5 percent of their daily caloric intake. This percentage may seem stringent, but it reflects growing concerns about the impact of excess sugar on health. High sugar intake has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and dental problems. By setting this limit, the ICMR-NIN aims to curb the rising tide of lifestyle-related diseases.
The new guidelines stand in stark contrast to India’s existing food policies, especially regarding sugar content in packaged foods. Recent scrutiny has focused on multinational food companies, such as Nestlé, which produce powdered baby food products. In lower-income countries like India, these products often contain added sugars, while similar products sold in wealthier nations do not. This disparity has raised ethical and health concerns.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) are now reevaluating its regulations related to sugar in packaged foods. The controversy surrounding Nestlé’s practices has prompted a closer examination of labeling, transparency, and nutritional claims. Nestlé India, in response to the criticism, claims to have reduced added sugars in its infant cereals portfolio. However, questions remain about the overall impact of such practices on public health.
India’s new dietary guidelines signal a shift toward greater awareness of the role of nutrition in preventing diseases. By limiting sugar intake and prioritizing healthier options, the country aims to improve the well-being of its citizens. As consumers, we must also play an active role by making informed choices and advocating for transparent food labeling. Let’s embrace these guidelines as a positive step toward a healthier India.
