From Samosas to Soft Drinks: Why Checking Oil and Sugar Is a Must for Good Health

Everywhere you look, fast food and sweet treats seem to call out to us, pizzas, samosas, burgers, vada pavs, pastries, and soft drinks. They may taste delicious and make our taste buds happy, but eating too much of them is not good for our health. With obesity rising across the country, the Union Health Ministry has already taken a big step to remind people to be careful about what they eat. In July, it asked government offices, departments, and public institutions to set up special ‘Oil and Sugar Boards’ to show how much hidden fat and sugar these everyday foods actually contain.

This idea is not just about putting up a board; it is about helping people understand what goes inside their bodies every day. When we know how much oil or sugar a simple snack has, we start thinking twice before grabbing it. This awareness, the ministry hopes, will push people towards healthier eating habits and help slow down the growing rate of obesity in India.

Why the Ministry Felt the Need

The need for such boards comes from worrying numbers. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5 for the years 2019–2021 showed that 24 percent of Indian women and 23 percent of Indian men were overweight or obese. This is higher than the previous survey (2015–2016), when the numbers were 21 percent and 19 percent. This steady increase shows that more people are eating in unhealthy ways and that habits like too much sugar and oil are part of the problem.

Connecting to this idea, it is important to remember that earlier in May 2025, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) had also asked schools to install ‘Sugar Boards.’ These boards were meant to help students cut down on sugar and learn about healthier food choices. The July advisory from the Health Ministry builds on that same message but for workplaces and public offices.

What the Boards Will Do

The ‘Oil and Sugar Boards’ will share simple but powerful information about hidden fats and sugar in popular foods. Many people don’t realize how much oil goes into a single samosa or how much sugar is in a glass of soft drink. By seeing these numbers every day, people will be reminded to think before they eat.

To make the message even stronger, the advisory also suggests printing health reminders on office stationery and publications. This way, every time someone picks up a file or a notepad, they will see a gentle reminder to watch what they eat. The aim is to create a workplace environment where healthy choices become natural and not something we think of only when we fall sick.

The Link Between Awareness and Healthy Choices

When people start noticing what they eat, they become more aware of their food habits. This simple awareness can be the first step towards mindful eating. Mindful eating means paying attention to how much we eat and what nutrients we are giving our body. It also helps in controlling portions. Many of us often eat more than we actually need, and by tracking or observing our intake, we learn the right amount for a balanced meal.

Once portion control becomes a habit, the next step is looking at the quality of food. Tracking what you eat doesn’t just mean counting calories; it also means checking if your meals have enough vitamins and minerals. This helps you notice if something is missing from your diet and gives you the chance to fix it.

Better Health and Energy

Being aware of what goes into your body helps in many ways, better digestion, steady energy through the day, and even a better mood. People who know what they eat can also find out which foods make them feel lazy or uncomfortable and can choose healthier options. This is not about giving up your favorite treats forever but about making informed choices that keep you fit.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It is not a medical guide. For personal health concerns or advice, always consult a qualified professional.