Cultural shift to combat junk food

Apropos of ‘Junk food needs a strong policy dose’; the over-the-counter food is not merely a dietary choice but a behavioural addiction, reinforced by instant gratification and emotional satiety. Children reach out for packaged snacks out of habit, boredom or stress. Sometimes, parents too encourage processed food in place of home-cooked food. This normalises unhealthy eating patterns. In rural areas, cheap ultra-processed snacks are replacing traditional foods. Combating junk-food consumption requires not only stricter regulations but also a cultural shift that promotes wholesome eating habits. Ashok Singh Guleria, Hamirpur Discourage bad eating habits Refer to ‘Junk food needs a strong…