Packaged foods causing health problems

- Dr. Satyawan Saurabh

Multinational corporations often sell less healthy food in low-income countries than in rich countries. Health star ratings for food products averaged 2.3 for rich countries versus 1.8 for poor countries, reflecting a disparity bordering on exploitation. Coconut oil, once linked to heart disease, is now promoted for its neuroprotective properties. Seed oils, previously heavily promoted, are now known to be harmful. Traditional diets, used for generations and validated by gut microbiome studies, are rapidly gaining importance. Refined grains and polished foods have exacerbated health problems, including diabetes and obesity. Greenwashing and unfounded environmental claims by corporations further mislead consumers.

Recent reports allege that Lindt dark chocolate contains lead and cadmium above acceptable levels. The company attributes this to the inevitability of heavy metals in cocoa. In the US, a class-action lawsuit has been filed; however, the company continues its operations without any hindrance. In 2015, Nestle's Maggi noodles were temporarily banned after tests found excessive lead and monosodium glutamate content. This exposed deceptive marketing strategies where the highly processed product was advertised as a healthy option with the tagline "Taste bhi, Swasthya bhi." Two Nutrition Initiative studies show that multinational corporations often sell less healthy food in low-income countries than in rich countries. Health star ratings for food products averaged 2.3 for rich countries while 1.8 for poor countries, reflecting a disparity bordering on exploitation. This inequality reflects systematic exploitation and underlines the moral responsibility of global corporations to ensure uniform food quality standards. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India mandates labeling for ingredients, nutritional value, and expiry dates on packaged foods. Despite regulatory requirements, many companies make unverified claims such as being "eco-friendly," "organic," or "diet-friendly." Many consumers fail to check labels thoroughly, instead relying on front-pack health claims influenced by advertising. The National Institute of Nutrition of the Indian Council of Medical Research identified that misleading labels contribute to the rise of non-communicable diseases and obesity.

 High intake of ultra-processed foods such as soda, candy, pre-packaged meat, sugary cereals, and potato chips increases the risk of 32 health problems, including cancer, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and respiratory disorders, depression, anxiety, and premature death, according to a new study published in the Journal of Cancer. The study found that consumption of ultra-processed foods in high-income countries accounts for up to 58% of daily calorie intake. Middle- and low-income countries have also seen significant increases in consumption in recent years. People who consumed more of these foods had a higher risk of depression, type 2 diabetes, and fatal heart attacks. Many consumers fail to read food labels comprehensively. For example, berries marketed as "healthy" may contain added sugar, which is carefully mentioned in the ingredients but omitted from the nutrition facts. Hidden messages through advertisements and health claims often circumvent rigorous scrutiny, misleading consumers. The food processing industry has improved food availability and shelf life but often lacks transparency. Additives, preservatives, and chemical processes in production are linked to metabolic disorders and diseases. The traditional understanding that food is equivalent to medicine has been undermined by modern practices. While organic foods are becoming popular, they remain a niche market due to high cost and limited access. Emphasis should be on local, seasonal produce, with sources facilitated by QR codes to provide detailed production and sourcing information. Considering the dilution of safety standards for profit, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's move to classify packaged water as a high-risk food is a welcome move. Regular audits and consumer vigilance are essential to ensure safety.

Coconut oil, once linked to heart disease, is now promoted for its neuroprotective properties. Seed oils, which were heavily promoted earlier, are now known to be harmful. Traditional diets, validated by generation-long use and gut microbiome studies, are rapidly gaining importance. Refined grains and polished foods have exacerbated health problems, including diabetes and obesity. Greenwashing and unsubstantiated environmental claims by corporations further mislead consumers. Consumer awareness and vigilance are needed for misleading claims by food companies. Nutritional literacy must go beyond label reading to understanding the broader implications of food production and marketing. Caveat emptor must guide consumers in making informed choices. Regulatory bodies such as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India must strengthen enforcement and enhance labelling standards. Companies must adopt ethical practices while ensuring uniform food quality across markets. Consumers must prioritize informed choices through caution and vigilance. Consumers must adopt a mindful approach to food consumption, balancing modern convenience with traditional wisdom. Increasing transparency, improving labeling accuracy, and promoting nutrition literacy are important steps toward ensuring food safety and better health outcomes.