Why in News?
The Union Health Ministry has launched a “Sugar and Oil Boards” initiative, directing government departments to display fat, sugar, and trans fat content of popular snacks to raise awareness about lifestyle diseases and promote healthier food choices and habits.
Description:
- CBSE Mandate: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed over 24,000 affiliated schools to establish ‘sugar boards’ on campus.
- Purpose of Sugar Boards:
- Visually display the sugar content in common snacks and beverages.
- Use simple comparisons (e.g., teaspoons of sugar) to make it relatable for children.
- Raise awareness about health risks linked to excessive sugar consumption.
- Role of NCPCR:
- The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has urged all schools, including those under state boards, to implement sugar boards.
- The appeal comes amid rising Type-2 diabetes cases among children.
- Alarming Sugar Intake:
- Indian children consume 13–15% of daily calories from sugar, significantly exceeding the WHO’s recommended 5% limit.
- Pending Regulatory Action:
- The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has not yet finalized:
- HFSS (High Fat, Salt, Sugar) standards for school meals.
- Front-of-pack labelling norms.
- The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has not yet finalized:
- WHO Guidelines:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) advises limiting free sugar intake to less than 10% of daily energy intake for both children and adults.
- A further reduction to below 5% is suggested for added health benefits.
- Need for Local Standards:
- Indian experts advocate stricter limits due to higher local risk of heart diseases.
- Call for a nationwide dietary study to frame India-specific guidelines and standards.
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