Amid the ongoing controversy about the so-called advisory about the ‘samosa-jalebi’ carrying cigarette packet-like health warnings, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has reacted to the news on social media. While there were several media reports about the claim, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Tuesday issued a fact check stating that display of `Sugar` and `Oil` boards is general advisory to make people aware of hidden fats and excess sugar in all food products, and not specifically to any particular food product.
However, Diwekar reminds of an age-old health and nutrition factor that is often ignored and the need for people to pay attention to the food they consume in their every day life as it is the need of the hour.
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The Mumbai-based expert said, “Tobacco is an independent risk factor. It harms irrespective of environment & lifestyle. There is ample proof of that. Samosa and jalebi ne aap ka kya bigada hai?”
While the Indian foods are quite popular street foods, she reminds there is more to food than meets the eye. Diwakar added, “If we are serious about health warnings – colas, chips, cookies, etc, must get them first. Regulate and tax Big food.”
“Ultra processed foods products are the real problem. And there is ample proof of that too,” she concluded.
Many people have since then reacted to the post in support of her analysis.
To avoid any confusion, In its statement, the PIB further clarified that the advisory of the Union Health Ministry has not been “selective” towards Indian snacks and does not “target” India`s rich street food culture.
Some media reports claim that the @MoHFW_INDIA has issued a health warning on food products such as samosas, jalebi, and laddoo.#PIBFactCheck
✅This claim is #fake
✅The advisory of the Union Health Ministry does not carry any warning labels on food products sold by vendors,… pic.twitter.com/brZBGeAgzs
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) July 15, 2025
The PIB called it an initiative to urge people to make healthier choices to cut down on excess oil and sugar towards healthy eating and living.
In a major push to promote healthier lifestyles and combat the rise of obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases like diabetes and heart disease among others, the Union Health Ministry has proposed to prominently display boards indicating the amount of oil and sugar content in popular food items, such as pizzas and burgers as well as samosas, vada pav, kachori among others, in schools, offices, institutions in various Departments/Offices/autonomous bodies and organisations.
(With inputs from ANI)