ICMR-NIN Proposes Dual-Axis Food Classification to Regulate Junk Food

Scientists at ICMR-NIN have proposed a 'dual-axis' framework to classify packaged foods based on both industrial processing levels and nutrient content.

The proposal, published in The Lancet Regional Health-Southeast Asia, aims to address regulatory gaps for 'health-positioned' products like protein bars and zero-sugar beverages.

The researchers argue that current regulations fail to account for ultra-processed ingredients like emulsifiers and stabilizers, which contribute to rising obesity and NCD rates in India.