ICMR
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recently released a significant advisory that classifies several common food items, including bread, butter, and cooking oil, as ultra-processed foods. This classification has garnered attention and stirred discussions on dietary habits and health implications. Understanding the ICMR’s classification and its implications is crucial for consumers aiming to make informed dietary choices.
Understanding Ultra-Processed Foods
(ultra-processed food by the ICMR)
Ultra-processed foods are defined by their extensive processing and inclusion of industrial ingredients. These foods typically undergo multiple processes and contain additives, preservatives, and artificial substances that extend shelf life and enhance flavor. The ICMR’s list of ultra-processed foods is part of a broader initiative to promote healthier eating habits and reduce the risk of chronic diseases linked to poor diet.
ICMR's Classification of Bread
Bread, a staple in many households, is often perceived as a simple and wholesome food. However, the ICMR’s classification of bread as an ultra-processed food highlights the hidden complexities. Commercial bread usually contains additives like emulsifiers, preservatives, and high levels of sodium and sugar. These ingredients contribute to its categorization as ultra-processed, raising concerns about its long-term health effects.
ICMR's Advisory on Cooking Oil
Cooking oil is another surprising addition to the ICMR’s list of ultra-processed foods. The advisory points out that many commercially available cooking oils undergo extensive refining, bleaching, and deodorizing processes. These processes strip away natural nutrients and often involve the addition of synthetic antioxidants to prevent rancidity. The ICMR’s advisory on cooking oil urges consumers to be mindful of the types of oils they use and to opt for minimally processed alternatives like cold-pressed or virgin oils.
The Inclusion of Butter
Butter, commonly used in cooking and baking, also falls under the ICMR’s ultra-processed category. Commercially available butter often contains added salt and sometimes artificial flavorings and coloring agents. The ICMR advises consumers to be cautious with their butter intake and consider using less processed alternatives like ghee or homemade butter, which do not contain added preservatives.
The classification of these common foods as ultra-processed has significant health implications. Diets high in ultra-processed foods have been linked to an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. The ICMR’s recommendations emphasize the importance of reducing the intake of ultra-processed foods and increasing the consumption of whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Conclusion
The ICMR’s classification of bread, butter, and cooking oil as ultra-processed foods serves as a wake-up call for consumers. By highlighting the extensive processing these everyday items undergo, the ICMR aims to encourage healthier eating habits and reduce the burden of diet-related diseases. Adopting a diet rich in minimally processed foods is a crucial step towards better health and well-being.
For more detailed information on the ICMR’s advisory and the full list of ultra-processed foods, consumers are encouraged to refer to the official reports and guidelines provided by the Indian Council of Medical Research. By staying informed and making conscious dietary choices, individuals can significantly improve their overall health and quality of life.
To Know more about ultra processed foods (UPFs) and Dietary Guidelines for Indians As recommended by ICMR Click on the link below –
https://main.icmr.nic.in/sites/default/files/upload_documents/DGI_07th_May_2024_fin.pdf
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