India's Journey from Famine to Food Exporter

India has transitioned from a famine-hit nation in the 1970s to a leading food exporter today. However, its journey towards nutrition security remains incomplete.

Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23

• The survey provides insights into the monthly per capita expenditure (MPCE) on food, consumables, and durable goods over the past 23 years.
• Food expenditures have increased in real terms, with a shift towards protein sources like dairy, eggs, and meat, and a reduction in cereal expenditures.
• The Indian diet still relies heavily on low-quality carbohydrates, leading to obesity and other metabolic diseases.

Economic and Dietary Trends

• Per capita incomes and real GDP have increased, but cereal spending has declined significantly since 1999.
• Expenditure on animal-sourced foods and fruits and vegetables has increased.
• Urban consumers prioritize quality and variety, with a notable rise in processed food spending.

Health Implications of Dietary Changes

• The rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and poor diets contribute significantly to the disease burden in India.
• Projected increases in diet-related health risks include higher incidences of cancer, Type-2 diabetes, and respiratory diseases.

Nutrition and Environmental Impact

• There is a gap in vegetable and pulse consumption against recommended dietary guidelines.
• Following dietary guidelines could reduce methane emissions by 36% and nitrous oxide by 35% by 2050.

Recommendations for Improving Nutrition Security

• Implement fiscal measures like taxation on ultra-processed foods and sugary beverages.
• Support small-scale farmers to cultivate nutrient-dense foods and use regenerative agricultural techniques.
• Invest in research and development for low glycemic, high-protein crops and improve storage facilities.
• Food companies should produce affordable, healthy products aligning with Indian tastes.