MP Jindal calls for stricter regulations on refined oils & ultra-processed foods

Kurukshetra Member of Parliament Naveen Jindal on Wednesday raised concerns over the serious health risks posed by refined seed oils and ultra-processed foods.

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Jindal, in Parliament, emphasised the need for greater transparency, stricter regulations and consumer awareness to ensure public health and wellbeing.

He said studies indicated that repeated refining processes destroyed essential nutrients and introduced harmful trans fats, significantly increasing the risk of lifestyle diseases related to heart, diabetes and obesity.

These highly industrialised food products contained excessive preservatives, artificial additives and unhealthy fats, contributing to rising health issues, he added.

Many consumers were unaware of what they were eating due to misleading packaging and the absence of transparent labelling regarding processing methods and harmful ingredients, he said.

Jindal urged the government to introduce stricter food labelling laws, requiring manufacturers to clearly mention if a product contained refined seed oils or was categorised as ultra-processed.

He called for a government white paper on the long-term effects of such food products, citing the urgent need for scientific research and data-backed policy decisions.

He encouraged the adoption of cold-pressed oils, traditional cooking methods and minimally processed foods to safeguard the health of Indian citizens.

Jindal said as India moved towards becoming Viksit Bharat, ensuring a healthier population through food safety and nutrition awareness must be a priority.

He urged the government to take immediate steps to protect consumers from hidden health hazards and create a regulatory framework that empowered individuals to make informed dietary choices.