NEW DELHI– The Indian Health Ministry’s directive to install warning boards in government canteens and restaurants highlighting the sugar and oil content in popular foods like samosas and jalebis is being hailed by health experts as a major step toward curbing obesity and supporting the Fit India movement.
The ministry has instructed all central institutions to display “oil and sugar boards”—informational posters and digital displays similar to cigarette warning labels—that reveal the hidden fat, sugar, and oil content in commonly consumed items such as kachoris, pakoras, banana chips, pizzas, burgers, soft drinks, and chocolate pastries.
These warning boards not only show the nutritional breakdown of each item but also illustrate their impact on the human body and recommend daily intake limits for fats and sugars.
“The colorful posters will reveal just how much sugar and oil are hiding in the breakfasts we eat daily,” said Dr. Amar Amle, a cardiologist based in Nagpur. “Obesity has become a silent epidemic, projected to affect nearly 449 million people in India by 2050. This move by the government is both timely and commendable. The warning boards act just like tobacco warnings—they make people think twice.”
Dr. Amle added that the goal is to raise awareness so individuals understand the health risks tied to their daily food choices. “Whether it’s a samosa or a jalebi, people should know exactly what they’re consuming. This initiative supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Fit India campaign and moves us closer to building a healthier nation.”
Member of Parliament Milind Deora also commented on the issue via social media platform X, stating that the Parliamentary Subordinate Legislation Committee is currently reviewing the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s (FSSAI) proposed policies to address India’s growing obesity crisis.
“We have unanimously called for uniform regulations across all food categories, including alcohol, to ensure Indian cuisine isn’t unfairly singled out while multinational corporations continue promoting Western junk food unchecked,” Deora posted.
The Health Ministry’s directive follows a similar move in May by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), which ordered schools to install “sugar boards” to educate children about sugar content in food.
Public health experts believe these warnings are aligned with global nutrition targets and can help India combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and some forms of cancer.
“Excessive intake of sugar and oil—combined with sedentary lifestyles—is a key driver of obesity and other chronic conditions,” said Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Convener of the Research Cell at the Kerala State Indian Medical Association (IMA). “Early nutritional awareness is essential. Clear labeling and dietary education in schools empower children to make healthier choices before these diseases take root.” (Source: IANS)
