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Regarding need for strict monitoring of sugar content in baby
foods and soft drinks along with mandatory labelling and
pictorial warning on added ingredients to safeguard public
health-Laid
SHRI ANURAG SINGH THAKUR (HAMIRPUR): The issue of
elevated sugar levels in baby foods and soft drinks in India, many
of which exceed WHO guidelines is a key concern we should act
on. The World Health Organization recommends limiting free
sugars to below ten percent of total energy intake for adults and
children, ideally under five percent, and advises no added sugars
in infant foods. Yet studies indicate some packaged baby foods
contain around 2.7 grams of added sugar per serving, while
several soft drinks average about 10.6 grams per 100 ml,
contributing to rising obesity and diabetes risks among youth. The
Government?s initiatives, including the Fit India Movement and the
proactive work of FSSAI in revising nutrition standards are
commendable. To strengthen these efforts, I urge strict monitoring
of added sugars in baby foods, soft drinks and appeal for the
introduction of wider, bolder front-of-pack labelling regulations with
clear pictorial or star-based warnings on sugar, salt, and fats.
Prominent labels will empower consumers, encourage
reformulation, discourage excessive consumption, and align India
with global best practices. Such decisive steps will safeguard
children?s health, support informed choices, and advance our
collective vision of a fit, healthy India for present and future
generations.