Limit Sugar Content in Packed Food and Drinks, Says ICMR in New Rules: How It Benefits Health

The new ICMR rules reportedly propose a certain limit on the calorie threshold and presence of sugar in packaged foods and beverages.

Sugar is one of the first things people cut down on when embarking on weight loss. White sugar is also considered a white poison that adds calories, can cause obesity and other health problems. Recently, the Indian Medical Research Council (ICMR) and the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) have proposed a set of latest guidelines on the presence of sugar in packaged foods and beverages. The new rules will reportedly replace 13-year-old guidelines that limited the calorie threshold in foods.

According to a report by the Economic Times, the limits could affect soft drinks, juices, ice creams and cereals. Following the news, several food and beverage manufacturers expressed concern and left frantically.

All of these stricter measures towards sugar consumption come after controversy broke out over Nestlé’s addition of sugar to baby food. The Union Health Ministry has reportedly directed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the apex food regulatory body, to introduce rules requiring warning labels on food packages. These labels reflecting sugar content will be similar to the graphic health warnings found on cigarette packages, The Print reported.

5 health benefits of reducing sugar consumption

1. Weight control: Sugar, especially in the form of added sugars and sweeteners, is high in calories and has little or no nutritional value. Reducing sugar consumption can help reduce calorie consumption, which is crucial for losing weight and maintaining a healthy body weight.
2. Blood sugar regulation: Excess sugar consumption can cause spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, which can be particularly problematic for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. Reducing sugar intake can help stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Improve heart health: Added sugars are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and elevated levels of triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol. Reducing sugar consumption can help reduce the risk of these cardiovascular problems, leading to a healthier heart.
4. Reduced inflammation: Excess sugar consumption has been associated with increased inflammation in the body. Reducing sugar intake can help reduce inflammation, which is linked to a variety of chronic health conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Improved dental health: SSugar is a major contributor to the development of cavities and cavities. Reducing sugar consumption, especially sugary drinks and snacks, can help prevent cavities and maintain good oral health.

There is growing evidence that excessive sugar consumption may be linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. Reducing sugar consumption can help reduce this risk.

The ICMR has also published comprehensive 17-chapter guidelines on dietary standards for Indians.

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