The Centre has clarified that it has not issued any warning labels for popular Indian snacks like samosas, jalebis, or laddoos. The Union Health Ministry made it clear on Tuesday that there is no move to label or target foods sold by street vendors, and the advisory does not single out Indian street food in any way.

Earlier a circular was issued directing all the centrally run institutions to install "oil and sugar boards" in cafeterias, offices, and public spaces. It has been said that these should of oil, sugar, and calorie content in the items similar to the warning boards for cigarettes and tobacco.

The Ministry has specifically added "Samosa and Jalebi" under the warning list. This reportedly is not a ban on the food items; however, the goal is to help people make healthier choices.

The advisory has come ahead of the increasing issues in lifestyle choices among Indians.

Around 77 million Indians have Type 2 diabetes
One in five urban adults is overweight

Samosa__Jalebi_in_Hot_Soup_Snacks_to_come_up_with_Warning_Labels.png

This gives a clear estimation that nearly 450 million could be obese by 2050. This will make India the world's second-largest obese nation after the U.S. It is necessary to be aware that refined sugars, trans fats, and excessive salt fuel non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, hypertension, heart ailments, fatty liver. This even triggers mental health challenges that include anxiety and cognitive decline.

Experts say, "Sugar and trans fats are the new Tobacco"

Leading experts have provided their insights to it. Dr. Amar Amale, President of Cardiologic Society of India said,

"Sugar and trans fats are the new tobacco. People deserve to know what they are eating."

While, Dr. Rajiv Kovil of Zandra Healthcare added that beyond diabetes and heart disease, these snacks pose risks for obesity, fatty liver, insulin resistance, digestive disorders, immunity suppression, hormonal imbalance, PCOS, and mood disruptions.

AIIMS Nagpur is leading the way and is posting vibrant "Oil and Sugar Boards" warning about caloric content of Samosa, Pakoras and other items.

This campaign reportedly supports the nation's Fit India Movement by encouraging 10% reduction in oil usage and greater dietry awareness.

An Initiative towards better health

The initiative marks a pivotal shift in public-health strategy, treating unhealthy foods with the same seriousness as tobacco products. While labelling alone would not stem the obesity tide, it raises awareness and lays groundwork for broader interventions; policies targeting street food preparation, OOH (out-of-home) meals, and packaged goods regulation.

Like cigarette warnings have changed people's thoughts about smoking, these food warnings could also start a shift. This may help people becoming more aware of what they eat and making healthy eating a normal part of life.

Health Ministry's move faces Backlash

The move as well is facing criticism. Rujuta Diweker, Nutrition and wellness expert, Rujuta Diwekar has criticized the Union Health ministry's move. She said-

"Samosa, Jalebi ne aap ka kya bigada hai?"

She shared a post on her Instagram, where she wrote, "if we are serious about health warnings - colas, chips, cookies etc, must get them first. She emphasized that tobacco is an independent risk factor. It harms irrespective of environment and lifestyle.

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A post shared by Rujuta Diwekar (@rujuta.diwekar)

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