Shift from Infectious to Lifestyle Diseases

India is witnessing a transition in causes of death — from infectious diseases to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. These now account for nearly two-thirds of global mortality and morbidity, as noted in The Lancet and the Global Burden of Disease Report. Fast food and ultra-processed food consumption are major contributors to this shift.

Expansion of the Fast Food Industry

The fast food sector in India, valued at around ₹6,750–₹8,000 crore in 2010, has grown annually by 35–40%. Factors behind this boom include economic liberalisation, changing social structures, urbanisation, and rising disposable incomes. Eating out became a middle-class norm with the growth of malls, multiplexes, and restaurants.

Socio-Cultural Changes and Food Habits

Economic reforms in the 1990s transformed India’s urban culture. As more women entered the workforce and families adopted busy lifestyles, processed and packaged foods gained popularity for their convenience. Scholars like Leela Fernandes and Tulasi Srinivas highlight how fast food became linked with modernity, aspiration, and cosmopolitan lifestyles.

Localisation and Cultural Adaptation

Fast food companies have adapted their menus to Indian tastes—such as McDonald’s Aloo Tikki and McPaneer burgers. Eating at fast food outlets became a symbol of youth culture and celebration. Celebrity endorsements and cricket sponsorships by brands like Pepsi and Coca-Cola have further normalised junk food consumption.

Public Perception and Corporate Lobbying

Despite rising health risks, awareness remains low, even among educated youth. Emotional attachment to traditional fried or sweet foods hinders regulation. Corporate lobbying has also interfered with government initiatives—for example, attempts by processed food companies to introduce biscuits in the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, which were later rejected by the HRD Ministry.

Health Impacts of Ultra-Processed Foods

India is now called the “diabetes capital of the world.” According to WHO, about 77 million adults have diabetes. An ICMR study (2024) found that fried and ultra-processed foods high in Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs) aggravate the diabetes crisis. Obesity, hypertension, and thyroid disorders are increasingly common among the youth.

Need for Policy and Regulation

WHO dietary guidelines advise limiting free sugars, saturated fats, and salt intake. Adoption of the NOVA food classification can help India regulate processed food categories. Clear calorie and ingredient labelling, junk food taxation, and school-based nutrition policies are crucial to safeguard public health.

International Bst Practices

Other nations offer valuable models: Mexico imposed taxes on sugary drinks (2014), while South Korea restricted junk food ads targeting children (2010). Similar strategies—like a “fat tax” or stricter advertising laws—could help India address its growing NCD burden and fast food-related health crisis.

Conclusion

India’s fast food expansion reflects deep socio-economic changes tied to liberalisation, urbanisation, and global consumer culture. However, unchecked growth of ultra-processed foods poses severe public health risks. A balanced policy approach involving regulation, public awareness, and corporate accountability is essential for sustainable food and health systems.