ICMR-NIN calls for new framework to regulate processed foods

On July 28, 2026, scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research's National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) announced a call for a new regulatory framework to govern processed foods in India. This initiative follows a sharp increase in adult obesity rates and a notable rise in household spending on processed foods over the last ten years. The experts argue that current regulations fail to effectively tackle diet-related health issues due to the absence of a formal definition for ultra-processed foods (UPFs) within the country. The ICMR-NIN team has introduced a “dual-axis” model that integrates the level of food processing with nutritional content. They emphasize that this approach is necessary to better manage diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and combat the growing public health concern of obesity. Existing global standards, according to the researchers, might not fully apply to India's diverse food environment, where unhealthiness can stem from either excessive processing or high levels of fat, sugar, and salt. Dr. SubbaRao M. Gavaravarapu, the lead scientist on the project, explained that India's food system requires a tailored regulatory structure. He pointed out that evaluating food solely based on processing intensity or nutrient levels would result in insufficient oversight. Instead, a dual-axis strategy offers a more accurate method for assessing food quality, aligning with cultural eating habits and enhancing consumer understanding. Dr. Bharati Kulkarni, director of ICMR-NIN, underscored the importance of evidence-based policies given India's challenge of coexisting undernutrition and rising obesity rates. She noted that the proposed framework complements the Dietary Guidelines for Indians 2024, which was the first to consider both food processing and nutritional aspects together. These guidelines suggest that upcoming rules should evaluate industrial processing methods, fat, sugar, and sodium levels, along with the distinctive features of Indian cuisine and traditional cooking techniques. The scientists believe implementing this framework could enhance food categorization systems, refine front-of-pack labeling, prevent deceptive health claims on modified products, and aid in tackling obesity and other diet-linked NCDs in the nation. Their recommendations aim to ensure that food regulations are both scientifically sound and reflective of local dietary patterns. As part of their advocacy, the ICMR-NIN released a detailed press statement outlining these proposals, marking a pivotal step towards more nuanced food governance in India.