Have you ever wondered why even in villages, children and adults are seen eating more crisps, chips and packet snacks these days, while it becomes difficult to get fruits and vegetables? Now the government’s top economic advisor has also raised the same concern. Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (EAC-PM) Chairman S. Mahendra Dev clearly said on Wednesday that Kurkure is more easily available in villages than fruits and vegetables… This pattern has to be changed. His statement is not just a comment, but a deep warning about our changing eating habits and the increasing diseases associated with it. After all, why is it necessary to talk about this?
Mahendra Dev presented figures, which clearly show that the consumption of packaged food was not limited to cities only. He said, 21% of food in rural areas now comes from processed food and packed drinks. In urban areas this share is more than 25%. That means chips, namkeen, cold drinks, instant noodles, frozen food and crisps are now becoming a part of everyday food. And the reason is that it is available quickly and is a favorite of children and adults. But this very facility is now becoming a threat to health.
why to worry
Mahendra Dev said, even in villages, chips and crisps are more available than fruits and vegetables. We have to provide better options especially for children. That means the problem is not only of people’s choice but also of availability. You go to any small shop in the village or town. A full line of crisps and chips will be available.
But fruits and vegetables?
will there be any law
When he was asked whether there would be any government policy on this, he said, right now the first focus will be on making people aware. The second focus will be to interact with the industry and encourage them to make healthy choices. This means that instead of imposing direct restrictions on its own, the government wants to first give direction to people and companies.
