Refined Oils and Ultra-Processed Foods Under Threat: A New Era of Healthy Eating?

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): BJP MP from Kurukshetra, Haryana, Naveen Jindal on Wednesday raised the issue of serious health hazards associated with refined oils and ultra-processed food in Parliament. He stressed the need for strict regulation, transparency and consumer awareness so that the public gets the right to live a healthy life. BJP MP Naveen Jindal appealed to make laws on refined oil and processed food more stringent. BJP MP Naveen Jindal prominently raised these points in Parliament regarding refined oils and ultra-processed food. Referring to the ill-effects of refined seed oils, he said that many studies have shown that repeated refining processes destroy nutrients and produce harmful trans fats, which increase the risk of serious diseases like heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

On the danger of ultra-processed food, the BJP MP said that these food products contain excessive chemical preservatives and harmful fats, which lead to serious health problems. Raising the issue of lack of clear labeling, he said that consumers often do not understand what they are eating due to confusing packaging and labeling. Emphasizing on making clear food labeling mandatory, Naveen Jindal urged the government to clearly state on food products whether they use refined oils or fall in the ultra-processed category. He demanded the government to publish a white paper on the effects of refined oils and ultra-processed substances on health, so that this subject can be studied in depth from a scientific point of view. Referring to promoting healthy options, he emphasized the need to encourage traditional and cold-pressed oils, natural and organic foods.

Naveen Jindal said that it is very important for citizens to be healthy to achieve the goal of 'Developed India'. He appealed to the government to take concrete steps to protect consumers from hidden health hazards and create an effective food regulatory framework.