The decision to put up ‘Sugar Boards’ in schools across the country on the recommendations of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has received response from the sugar industry for the lack of a balanced and holistic approach to food and nutrition.
ChiniMandi spoke to experts and domain specialists yesterday, who felt that sugar is an integral part of the diet and should not be made a villain in the food pyramid.
The Director General of the Indian Sugar and BioEnergy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), Deepak Ballani, says that sugar shouldn’t be demonised. “We believe that sugar, when consumed in moderation, is not inherently harmful and should not be demonised”, he said.
Ballani said that the recent move to set up ‘Sugar Boards’ in schools risks sending a one-sided and negative message, especially to young, impressionable minds. “Such an approach fosters fear and guilt around food, rather than promoting understanding and balance. Sugar is naturally present in many nutritious foods like fruits and dairy, and moderate sweet consumption is a normal part of our cultural and social fabric”.
He suggested that the focus is truly needed on promoting healthy lifestyles, encouraging balanced diets, regular physical activity, mental well-being, and informed food choices.
“Oversimplifying the issue by isolating sugar as the main problem ignores the broader context of overall nutrition and wellness. Schools should aim to educate, not alarm, and help children develop lifelong healthy habits rooted in balance and awareness, not fear”, he added.
The Union Health Ministry has urged all ministries, departments and autonomous bodies to display “oil and sugar board” mentioning the sugar and oil content in snacks such as samosa, kachori, pizza, French fries and vadapav to promote a healthy lifestyle.
The Parliamentary Subordinate Legislation Committee said that the committee strongly supports equal rules for all kinds of foods, including alcohol. Indian foods should not be unfairly singled out while multinational companies promote unhealthy Western snacks without restrictions.
