FSSAI Asks States/Union Territories to Take Measures for Addressing Obesity in 2025
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has called on States and Union Territories to step up their efforts to manage obesity in a major step to counteract the country's growing obesity issue. The critical need for a concerted strategy to encourage better lives and eating habits across the country is highlighted by this order, which was given during the 47th Central Advisory Committee meeting on May 27, 2025.
Comprehending India's Obesity Epidemic
In India, obesity has become a hidden a global outbreak that affects people in both urban and rural areas. This health issue has been made worse by environmental causes, lack of exercise, and rising processed food intake. The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) found that 44.02% of men and 41.16% of women were overweight or obese (BMI > 22.9 kg/m²), which is a significant rise over prior years.The Strategic Actions Taken by the FSSAI to Fight Obesity
Given the complexity of obesity, FSSAI has developed a thorough plan to deal with the problem:Reduction in Oil use: Stressing the need of adopting healthy cooking methods, the FSSAI has urged for a 10% reduction in oil use.
'Sugar Boards' in Schools: In their health programs, schools are urged to set up 'sugar boards' to track and restrict children's sugar intake.
Support of the Eat Right India Movement: This program seeks to provide people more access to healthier food options and encourage balanced diets.
Improving Nutritional Labelling to Make Knowledgeable Decisions
The Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020 have been amended by the FSSAI to enable customers to choose healthier foods. According to these modifications, food packaging must disclose nutritional information, such as the amount of saturated fat, salt, and sugar, in bold characters with a larger font size.Using Fiscal Policies to Combat Obesity
The 2024–25 Economic Survey suggested imposing a health tax on highly processed foods that are heavy in sugar, salt, and bad fats. The goal of this action is to discourage the consumption of certain items and promote better eating practices among the populace.Including Prevention of Obesity in Medical Services
The necessity of incorporating obesity treatment into primary healthcare services has been emphasised by the Union Health Ministry. To guarantee uniform treatment methods, this entails requiring height, weight, and waist measurements during physical examinations as well as educating medical professionals on managing obesity.
Campaigns for Community Involvement and Awareness
In order to combat obesity, public awareness is essential. To raise awareness of healthy food alternatives, FSSAI has organized more than 400 Eat Right Melas across. The purpose of these gatherings is to inform people about the value of eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise.
In conclusion
One of the most important steps in India's public health policy is the FSSAI's mandate for States and Union Territories to take action against obesity. India wants to stop the obesity pandemic and create a healthy country by enacting comprehensive regulations, improving nutritional labelling, and raising public awareness.
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