Indian Government Launches Campaign to Warn About Unhealthy Snacks in Nagpur

In a major move to raise awareness about unhealthy eating, the Indian government has announced that popular snacks like samosas, jalebis, pakoras, vada pav, and chai biscuits will soon carry cigarette-style health warnings.

These warnings will highlight the high levels of oil, sugar, and trans fats in these foods-nutrients closely linked to lifestyle diseases.

STARTING IN NAGPUR WITH AIIMS AS MODEL SITE

The campaign is being rolled out first in Nagpur, where the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS Nagpur) will serve as the pilot location for the initiative.

Cafeterias and public eating spaces on the campus will begin displaying bright, easy-to-read warning boards next to food counters.

WHY THIS MOVE?

India is facing a growing health crisis. With obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease on the rise, the government is turning its focus to what’s on the plate.

Frequent consumption of deep-fried and sugary snacks is a major contributor.

By 2050, an estimated 440 million Indians could be overweight or obese, a global analysis published in The Lancet journal has estimated.

WHAT WILL CHANGE?

At places like AIIMS Nagpur, visitors will now see:

Warning posters beside popular food stalls

Clear information about sugar, fat, and trans fat content

Messages that outline long-term health risks from frequent consumption

These warnings are designed to be direct and impactful, much like the alerts on cigarette packaging.

NOT A BAN, JUST BETTER AWARENESS

The government has clarified that this is not a ban on traditional foods.

Samosas and jalebis will still be available, but consumers will be informed about what they’re eating.

The goal is to promote moderation, not restriction.

LOOKING AHEAD

The warning-label campaign is expected to expand to other cities and institutions in the coming months.

Authorities hope this will act as a wake-up call and push more people toward balanced diets.

Authorities are hoping that this step will encourage people to make more mindful food choices, starting with a simple glance at a cafeteria wall.

-Article by Arima Singh

According to the source: India Today.