ICMR-NIN calls for new framework to regulate processed foods

With obesity among Indian adults on the rise and household expenditure on processed foods increasing significantly over the past decade, scientists from the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) have called for stronger regulation of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and foods high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS).The scientists have proposed a ‘dual-axis’ regulatory framework that combines the degree of food processing with nutrient content, arguing that India needs a more comprehensive approach to addressing diet-related health concerns.The proposal comes amid growing concerns over obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). According to the researchers, India currently lacks a formal regulatory definition of UPFs, limiting the effective implementation of measures such a