Click-to-craving culture: Food delivery apps take toll on health

The convenience of food delivery apps has transformed eating habits but experts warn that this digital revolution is silently eroding human health. With meals now available at the click of a button, the growing reliance on fast food is proving detrimental, particularly among the younger generation.

Dr Geeti Puri Arora, diabetologist from Mohandai Oswal Hospital, says, “Food delivery apps have proved fatal for people’s health. Everything is now available at the click of a button and there is no need to cook or even step out. People are satisfying their cravings by ordering from these apps, and this is leading to serious lifestyle disorders,” she said.

Children as young as six months to 18 years are being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, which is a disturbing fact, she added.

The growing inclination towards calorie-laden processed for meals delivered online is contributing to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems.

Nutritionists argue that the tradition of home-cooked meals, once the backbone of Indian households is being sidelined. The result is a generation that prefers convenience over nutrition, often unaware of the long-term consequences.

Dr Rupinder Kaur, Associate Director (Skill Development) at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), emphasised that the arrival of winter offers a natural opportunity to reset food habits. “With the arrival of the most healthy season of all, introducing modifications in fast food items and serving home-made recipes using fresh ingredients could lead to better health and satisfy cravings across age groups,” she said.

She added that seasonal produce such as leafy greens, root vegetables, and pulses could be creatively incorporated into recipes, offering both taste and nutrition.

Dr MS Bhullar, Director of Extension Education at PAU, reinforced the message with a simple reminder, “There is nothing sweeter than home-made dishes.” His words echoed the sentiment of many experts who believe that returning to traditional cooking practices is the most effective way to combat the health risks posed by convenient meals.

The toll this habit has taken is the most visible among youngsters. Gym trainer Sehajpreet Kaur, an instructor at the PAU gym, noted that fitness routines are being undermined by poor dietary choices. “Youngsters are increasingly turning away from home-cooked food. Junk food delivered online has become their first preference, and this is taking a serious toll on their health and fitness levels,” she said.

A call for balance

While food delivery apps have undeniably made life easier, experts stress the need for balance. Occasional indulgence may be acceptable, but daily dependence on calorie-dense, processed meals is unsustainable. Nutritionists recommend that families reintroduce home cooking, experiment with healthier versions of popular fast foods, and educate children about the value of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Instead of ordering through an app, one should step out to buy their favourite dish. This habit can help curb impulsive cravings, especially on days when the person feels reluctant to leave the house.