The Union Health Ministry on Tuesday dismissed reports suggesting it had instructed vendors to put warning labels on food items like samosas, jalebis, and laddoos, calling them “misleading, incorrect, and baseless.”
The ministry clarified that its advisory on raising awareness about hidden fats and excess sugar in certain foods is not a directive for vendors to label their products. It also emphasized that the move is not aimed at targeting India’s vibrant street food culture.
In a statement, the ministry clarified that the general advisory is intended as a behavioural nudge to raise awareness about hidden fats and excess sugar in all food products, and is not directed at any specific item.
The advisory also includes messages promoting the consumption of healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and low-fat options. It encourages people to adopt simple physical activities, such as taking the stairs and doing short exercises, as part of a healthier lifestyle.
The ministry had also issued a separate advisory as part of an initiative to encourage healthier choices in workplaces. It recommends displaying informational boards to raise awareness about the harmful effects of consuming hidden fats and excess sugar in various food items.
These boards are intended to serve as daily reminders to combat obesity, which is rising rapidly across the country, the statement added.
“The health ministry advisory does not direct warning labels on food products sold by vendors, and has not been selective towards Indian snacks. It does not target India’s rich street food culture,” it clarified.