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The Economic Survey for 2025-26 has pointed out that the increasing use of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is a major public health issue, connecting it to long-term diseases, increasing obesity rates, and growing health inequalities. In a thorough section of its Education and Health chapter, the Survey claims that there is enough evidence to warrant government action, asserting that this problem cannot be ignored while waiting for more studies. It is significant that ultra-processed foods are mentioned in this important government economic report. Typically, Economic Surveys center on topics like economic growth, inflation rates, government spending, and performance in different sectors. By bringing attention to UPFs, the Survey indicates that health issues linked to diet are now being seen as economic challenges that affect healthcare expenses, productivity, and future progress.

The Survey views ultra-processed foods as more than just a dietary issue. It addresses them within a wider conversation about public health dangers that can pressure healthcare systems and increase inequality. "The rise of UPFs in our diets is leading to chronic illnesses around the world and widening health gaps," the Survey notes, referencing a growing amount of global research that connects UPFs to obesity and long-term diseases like diabetes and heart illness. The document also mentions the Economic Survey from 2024-25, which previously discussed the rapid growth of UPF markets both in India and worldwide, along with emerging connections to physical and mental health problems. This year's Survey expands on those points. Ultra-processed foods are manufactured products primarily made from refined substances, additives, and preservatives, typically high in fats, sugars, and salts (HFSS) while lacking whole foods. Common examples include packaged snacks, instant noodles, sugary beverages, and convenient meals. The Survey does not specify certain products but instead examines the general eating habits influenced by urban living, convenience, costs, and heavy advertising. As UPFs become more accessible, the overall quality of diets has worsened.

The Economy Survey for 2025-26 states that the health dangers linked to these foods are now evident enough to warrant prompt action. "Public health policies should be put in place without delay while more research is being done," it mentions, relying on articles from The Lancet and evaluations by UNICEF and other international organizations. A key takeaway from the Survey is that enhancing diets shouldn’t be left completely to personal decision-making. Although awareness campaigns play a part, the report indicates that they are not enough by themselves. "Enhancing diets cannot rely only on changes in consumer habits," the Survey emphasizes. Instead, it advocates for a unified approach throughout food systems, which includes regulating the production of ultra-processed foods, providing clearer information for buyers, and modifying food advertising and promotion strategies. This shows a move away from blaming individuals for their choices. The Survey acknowledges that daily food selections are influenced by what is affordable, easily available, and heavily marketed.

The Survey highlights some methods used to advertise ultra-processed foods, especially targeted at children and teenagers. It points out that UPF ads often promote excessive consumption with catchy phrases like "I bet you can't eat just one," along with emotional appeals, discounts, and endorsements by celebrities. Often, UPFs are marketed as convenient or even healthy choices, which the Survey claims leads to the replacement of traditional, less processed foods and ultimately diminishes overall diet quality. The evidence presented includes research showing that teenagers who see ads for unhealthy food and drinks are more inclined to desire and consume those products. A study conducted in Punjab, India, found that parents were worried about food ads during the time kids watch TV and how celebrity endorsements affect their eating habits. Additional global research, such as a UNICEF review and studies from New Zealand, further confirms the connection between children seeing unhealthy food ads and increased consumption of ultra-processed foods.

The Survey does not consider marketing as the sole cause of the increase in ultra-processed food consumption or obesity. Instead, it sees marketing as one aspect among other broader issues like urban living, long hours at work, cost and ease of access, and the widespread availability of packaged foods. This shows that the underlying problem lies in how food systems operate today, rather than being solely due to advertising or personal choices. The issues highlighted by India's Economic Survey mirror a larger trend seen around the world. In many countries, ultra-processed foods have become more prevalent as food systems have adapted to prioritize speed, efficiency, and convenience. Longer work hours, city living, smaller families, and the rise of modern retail have made foods that are cheap, easy to store, and well-branded more popular. For numerous consumers, ultra-processed foods provide a cost-effective and convenient option at times when cooking time and food budgets are tight.

Additionally, increasing global research indicates that consuming a lot of ultra-processed foods is linked to various health risks, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart issues, and poor metabolic health. Some research has even raised alarms about how these foods affect gut health and mental wellness. While not all processed foods are harmful, diets that mainly consist of ultra-processed items are usually high in calories and low in fiber and vital nutrients, leading to a higher risk of overeating and poor diet quality. Public health specialists are increasingly agreeing that the issue of ultra-processed foods cannot be solved at one level alone. On an individual basis, understanding and basic nutrition knowledge remain key. On a community level, schools, jobs, and neighborhoods shape daily eating habits, especially among kids. On a national and economic scale, governments are concentrating on clearer food labeling, restrictions on marketing aimed at children, and policies that make healthier food selections easier to find and afford.

Worldwide, perspectives are changing from viewing diet-related health issues as personal failures to understanding them as outcomes of contemporary food environments. Many experts suggest that tackling ultra-processed foods requires aligning public health objectives with food policies, urban development, education, and economic choices. The Economic Survey 2025-26 does not advocate for bans on ultra-processed foods, nor does it single out companies or recommend harsh penalties. Instead, it emphasizes regulations based on evidence, clearer information for consumers, and enhancements to the overall food system. By addressing this topic in an economic policy report, the Survey positions diet-related health issues as a long-term developmental challenge, with increasing healthcare expenses, losses in productivity, and unequal health outcomes all impacting economic growth.