A recent government report has highlighted a growing public health concern: Indians are spending a significant portion of their budgets on processed food and beverages, which are linked to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases. The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey for 2023-24 reveals that rural India allocates 9.84% of their monthly budget to these items, while urban areas spend 11.09%. This marks the first time in two decades that spending on processed food and beverages has crossed the 10% threshold.

The report, based on data from 2.61 lakh households, emphasizes the shift in food consumption habits. In rural areas, 47% of monthly expenditure is on food, with nearly 10% spent on processed items. In urban areas, over 39% of food spending goes toward processed foods and beverages. This trend shows an alarming preference for ultra-processed products over more nutritious options like fruits, vegetables, and meats.

Experts, including Dr. V Mohan and Dr. K Srinath Reddy, warn that this consumption pattern is driving the rise in non-communicable diseases in India. High in sugar, salt, and trans fats, processed foods contribute to conditions like cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and diabetes. Dr. Reddy also pointed to the influence of marketing that promotes these unhealthy foods as aspirational, making them addictive and difficult to avoid.

On a positive note, the survey shows that milk and milk products make up over 8% of expenditure, and there is a noticeable decline in cereal consumption, likely due to government welfare programs.

As consumption of processed food continues to rise, experts urge stronger public policies to curb this trend and address the health challenges it poses.