'False and misleading': PIB debunks claim of 'warning labels' on Samosas, Jalebi, and Laddoo

New Delhi: The Press Information Bureau's (PIB) Fact Check unit has debunked recent media claims that the Union Health Ministry issued a health warning specifically targeting Indian street foods like samosas, jalebi, and laddoo. According to PIB, these claims are false and misleading.

"The advisory of the Union Health Ministry does not carry any warning labels on food products sold by vendors, and has not been selective towards Indian snacks," PIB clarified.

Instead, the Ministry's recent advisory is part of a broader health initiative that encourages the public to make informed dietary choices by raising awareness about hidden fats and excess sugar in commonly consumed foods.

"The general advisory is a behavioural nudge to make people aware of hidden fats and excess sugar in all food products, and not specifically to any particular food product," PIB added.

The clarification follows after the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare rolled out a public health initiative aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and combating the growing burden of obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and heart disease.

As part of this initiative, the Union Health Ministry has proposed the installation of boards displaying oil and sugar content in popular snacks- not only Indian foods like samosas, vada pav, and kachoris, but also international fast foods like pizzas and burgers- in schools, offices, and other public institutions.

This was detailed in a letter issued by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, who wrote:

"We are proposing the display of Sugar and Oil Boards as an initiative to promote healthier dietary habits in various settings. These boards serve as visual behavioural nudges in schools, offices, public institutions, etc., displaying key information about hidden fats and sugars in everyday foods."

"In the same spirit, I request you to issue directions kindly to Departments/Offices/autonomous bodies and other public institutions/organisations under your Ministry to install Oil and Sugar Board displays (Digital/ Static posters etc) in common areas (cafeterias, lobbies, meeting rooms and other public spaces) to raise awareness on harmful consumption," the letter read.