Bhubaneswar: An alarming shift in global eating habits is a matter of concern as it poses a range of health hazards, experts said Tuesday on the occasion of World Food Day observed worldwide October 16. The growing reliance on packaged and processed foods, driven by urbanisation, convenience, and lifestyle changes, is becoming a key factor in the rise of lifestyle-related diseases, they said. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the global packaged food market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2 per cent by 2027. In India, the shift is particularly pronounced, with the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) reporting that nearly 30 per cent of urban households now rely on processed food as a dietary staple. Packaged food consumption has doubled in the country over the past decade.
Health experts are increasingly concerned about the implications of the trend. A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) shows a 50 per cent increase in childhood obesity cases since 2010, with processed foods being identified as a key contributor. “The shift from freshly cooked food to packaged food can significantly impact health,” warned Bhubaneswar-based nutrition and fitness consultant Priyanka Singh Deo. “Packaged foods, though convenient, often contain preservatives, artificial additives, high sugar, and unhealthy fats that can contribute to long-term issues like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
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Freshly cooked meals usually offer higher nutritional value and fewer chemicals.” Despite these concerns, experts acknowledge that packaged foods have a place in certain situations. “For individuals living in remote areas or those abroad who struggle to access traditional meals, packaged foods can be essential,” she said. She further said that the key is to make informed choices by carefully reading labels and opting for healthier options with balanced nutrients.
RESHMI YADAV, OP