0
0
New Delhi, May 28, 2025 — In a significant move towards harnessing technology for public health, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has called on the National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli) to develop a smartwatch-like device capable of measuring an individual’s daily calorie or energy intake. This initiative aims to help millions of Indians keep a closer tab on their nutrition levels, potentially reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which account for nearly two-thirds of global deaths.
The announcement was made during a one-day workshop titled SWASTH (Stakeholders Workshop on Actionable Strategies for Tackling High in Fat, Salt, and Sugar (HFSS) and Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs)), jointly organized by MoFPI and NIFTEM-Kundli. Dr. Subrata Gupta, Secretary of MoFPI, stressed the growing importance of health and diet in today’s fast-paced world. He noted the popularity of smartwatches for tracking physical activity but pointed out a critical gap: “While we keep track of how many steps we walk each day, we often fail to monitor how much energy or how many calories we consume every day.”
Addressing Modern Food Challenges
The workshop highlighted several pressing issues, including food adulteration in processed products and large-scale food wastage. Dr. Gupta called for collective innovation and action to address these challenges, emphasizing the need for technology-driven solutions and stronger policy frameworks.
Experts at the event advocated for a return to traditional food habits while also tackling the problem of adulteration. Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director of NIFTEM-K, announced the institution’s willingness to collaborate with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to standardize and notify methodologies for determining added sugar in food products.
Dr. Ravinarayan Acharya, Director General of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), highlighted ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Ayush to ensure the safety, quality, and healthfulness of food products in collaboration with FSSAI and other government bodies.
Dr. Satyen Panda, Executive Director (R&D) and Advisor (QA, FSSAI), warned of widespread adulteration in processed foods and underscored the importance of a balanced, scientific approach to combat these issues.
Looking Ahead
The experts unanimously agreed that future health and nutrition policies must be grounded in rational, evidence-based frameworks that reflect the complex realities of modern food systems. The proposed smartwatch-like device for nutrition tracking could be a game-changer, empowering individuals to make informed dietary choices and fostering a healthier nation.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Ommcom News and IANS, summarizing statements and initiatives discussed at a recent workshop organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and NIFTEM-Kundli. The proposed smartwatch device is currently at the conceptual stage, and its development, features, and effectiveness remain subject to further research and regulatory approval. Readers are advised to consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary and health advice.
Citations:
