Calories killer ! MP pushes for higher taxes, stricter controls on unhealthy packaged foods

Speaking during Zero Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Odisha MP Sujeet Kumar highlighted the alarming rise in junk food consumption, linking it directly to the growing epidemic of non-communicable diseases across India.

Junk Food Surge Fuels Health Crisis

The unchecked rise in junk food consumption has become a serious concern in India. Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar, during Zero Hour, highlighted how the growing addiction to unhealthy snacks has led to a surge in non-communicable diseases across the country.

High Sugar, Salt & Fat: A Recipe for Disaster

Kumar emphasized that junk food is packed with excessive salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats while offering little to no nutritional value. This dietary shift, he warned, is contributing to a wave of obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases, especially among the youth.

Global Brands, Double Standards

A startling revelation by the MP exposed how multinational food brands maintain double standards. While they sell superior-quality food in Western countries, they push cheaper, low-quality versions in India, exploiting regulatory loopholes.

Tax Junk Food, Save Lives

To discourage consumption, Kumar proposed levying additional taxes on packaged junk food. He suggested that a higher tax slab could make unhealthy food less accessible while nudging consumers toward healthier alternatives.

Government Action Needed Now

The MP urged the government to tighten food regulations and ensure better monitoring of packaged products. He also called for mandatory disclosures on ingredients, stricter labeling norms, and awareness campaigns to educate consumers about the health risks.

A Nation at Risk: It's time for a Change

With India’s health on the line, the urgent need for policy reforms in the food industry cannot be ignored. Kumar’s appeal may just be the wake-up call India needs to tackle its growing junk food crisis.