Food safety vs public health: Maharashtra FDA chief Tukaram Mundhe calls for behaviour change

Food safety expert Tukaram Mundhe, Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration Commissioner, has highlighted the urgent need for behavioral change in India to address growing public health concerns. In his remarks at a talk session in Ahmedabad, Mundhe stressed that food safety has become a significant public health issue that is yet to be fully recognized by the public. He explained that people tend to attribute health problems solely to healthcare without considering the impact of their diet and consumption habits.

India already has numerous laws, rules, and regulations in place to ensure food safety, but Mundhe pointed out that these provisions are often not followed. He emphasized that the primary challenge lies in ensuring compliance with existing regulations. Mundhe further noted that the consequences of consuming unsafe food are frequently overlooked, as people focus on treating illnesses rather than examining potential dietary causes.

According to Mundhe, the disease burden in India has shifted from communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiac diseases. He attributed this change to modern lifestyle choices such as diet and lifestyle. Mundhe stressed that improving food safety requires changes not only in enforcement but also in everyday consumer behavior and habits.

He urged the public to develop food-related practices guided by safety standards and regulations. Mundhe concluded by emphasizing that building a stronger food culture based on safety and compliance is crucial for addressing the broader public health challenges associated with food consumption.