The Union Health Ministry has issued a clarification refuting recent media reports that claimed the Ministry directed the use of warning labels on traditional Indian snacks like samosa, jalebi, and laddoo. Terming these reports as “misleading, incorrect, and baseless,” the Ministry emphasized that no such directive has been issued.
In its official statement, the Ministry explained that a general advisory was issued earlier, aiming to promote healthier dietary practices in workplaces. The advisory encourages the display of informational boards in common areas such as lobbies, canteens, cafeterias, and meeting rooms. These boards are intended to raise awareness about the harmful effects of excessive oil and sugar consumption, particularly in processed or high-fat foods, as part of efforts to combat rising obesity levels in the country.
‘This advisory does not instruct food vendors to place warning labels on any food products, nor does it single out or target traditional Indian snacks or the country’s street food culture,’ the Ministry clarified. It added that the advisory serves as a behavioural nudge to promote better food choices and does not constitute any regulation or restriction on specific food items.
The initiative is part of the Ministry’s flagship National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD), which addresses lifestyle-related health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. The advisory also encourages workplaces to promote physical activity, such as using stairs, scheduling short exercise breaks, and providing access to walking routes.
Highlighting the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in India, the Ministry reiterated the importance of informed dietary decisions and a shift towards balanced meals including fruits, vegetables, and low-fat options. The move is aligned with broader public health goals, focusing on prevention and wellness rather than regulation.
