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EatFit and HRX take collaboration to the next level with offline stores, elevating fitness and nutrition choices

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EatFit Offline Stores
The stores of HRX by EatFit will offer a wide-ranging menu that includes an assortment of health bowls, health jars, smoothies, and smoothie bowls.

Curefoods and HRX by Hrithik Roshan, two prominent entities in the health and fitness industry in India, have made an exciting announcement. They have joined forces to introduce HRX by EatFit offline stores, marking a significant step in their partnership. EatFit, the largest healthy food platform in India operated by Curefoods, will now offer HRX products through physical retail outlets, providing customers with a convenient way to access their favorite fitness merchandise.

This strategic move further solidifies their collective commitment to improving people’s lifestyles and fostering a culture of healthier choices by prioritizing nutritious food options.

Following their successful collaboration, which began in July 2022, the expansion into offline stores represents a significant milestone in their partnership.

This expansion allows customers to have a firsthand experience of the wide range of offerings from HRX by EatFit, underscoring the ongoing growth and success of their partnership.

HRX, the fitness brand founded by Hrithik Roshan and Exceed Entertainment, is India’s first homegrown fitness brand. Its core focus is on empowering individuals through health-conscious choices in fitness and nutrition, supporting them on their path to self-improvement. HRX strives to provide a wide range of options that enable individuals to make positive changes and embark on a transformative journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Hrithik Roshan, Founder of HRX, said, “I am thrilled to witness the expansion of our partnership with EatFit through the launch of our offline stores. HRX aims at providing holistic solutions to live a healthier lifestyle and eating right is crucial to our vision. The values that both EatFit and HRX as brands hold are deeply interconnected and we pride ourselves on this synergy. I hope that the HRX by EatFit offline stores will enable individuals to access nutritional meals on the go.”

HRX offers a comprehensive selection of products to its customers, encompassing fitness apparel, footwear, accessories, sports equipment, home gym equipment, bicycles, smart wearables, and more. This diverse range of products is designed to cater to the holistic fitness requirements of individuals, enabling them to adopt and maintain a healthier lifestyle. With an emphasis on quality and functionality, HRX ensures that its customers have access to the tools and resources they need to pursue their fitness goals effectively.

Since the collaboration between EatFit and HRX commenced in July 2022, HRX by EatFit has witnessed remarkable expansion and progress.

With revenue doubling every quarter, HRX by EatFit has achieved an annualized revenue of INR 25 crores. Drawing strength from this accomplishment, the brands have established an ambitious plan to launch 10 offline stores initially, laying the foundation for a grand vision of expanding to 150 stores by 2025.

The primary focus of these stores will be major metro cities, as HRX by EatFit aims to establish a strong presence in these urban centers. Subsequently, the brand plans to gradually expand its footprint to Tier 1 cities, ensuring a wider reach for their comprehensive range of offerings.

The offline stores of HRX by EatFit have been strategically located in areas such as food courts, fitness studios, and malls. This meticulous selection of locations aims to maximize accessibility, enhance visibility, and foster greater customer engagement. By positioning the stores in these high-traffic areas, HRX by EatFit aims to connect with a larger audience and provide convenient access to their products and services.

The stores of HRX by EatFit will offer a wide-ranging menu that includes an assortment of health bowls, health jars, smoothies, and smoothie bowls. This diverse selection combines convenience with a focus on providing optimal nutrition. Customers will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of wholesome options, ensuring a well-rounded and nourishing dining experience at HRX by EatFit stores.

Ankit Nagori, Founder of Curefoods, said, “The offline stores will showcase the unique USP of EatFit and HRX first-hand to the customers, bringing a focus to nutritional meals that are specially crafted to seek a healthy lifestyle. I believe that this move will bring awareness among the minds of people towards consuming a nutritional diet, and see success in our partnership with HRX.”

The launch of these offline stores signifies a significant milestone for EatFit and HRX, underscoring their steadfast dedication to prioritizing the health and well-being of their customers. This achievement showcases the joint commitment of both brands to work together and make positive contributions to the fitness and wellness industry. By joining forces, EatFit and HRX are further strengthening their resolve to empower individuals on their journey towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.

With a seamless integration of nutrition and fitness, these brands are in a prime position to create a lasting impact on the health and fitness landscape. By harmoniously blending the elements of nourishment and physical activity, EatFit and HRX are poised to revolutionize the way individuals approach their well-being. This synergistic approach ensures a holistic and comprehensive approach to health, empowering individuals to achieve their fitness goals and lead balanced lives.

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Working professionals rejoice: Unveiling the secret to indulging in late-day coffee without any digestive discomfort! 

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late-day coffee

POV: Picture this: It’s a tranquil evening, and you crave the rich, aromatic embrace of a cup of coffee, but the looming thought of a restless night keeps you hesitant. Fear not, for we bring you the most gut-friendly way to indulge in that late-day caffeine fix without compromising your sleep or digestive health. In this article, we dive into the expert insights of a seasoned dietitian to unveil the secrets of savoring coffee in a manner that won’t disrupt your delicate internal balance. Bid farewell to jitters, acid reflux, and sleepless nights as we unravel the tips, tricks, and alternative approaches that will allow you to relish the pleasures of coffee without the unwelcome side effects. Discover the mindful adjustments, nourishing additions, and timing strategies that can transform your evening coffee ritual into a gut-friendly experience, ensuring a harmonious balance between your love for coffee and your body’s well-being. So, grab your favorite mug and join us on this journey to savoring coffee late in the day, the gut-friendly way.

Impact Of Coffee On Digestion 

One significant impact of coffee on digestion is its ability to stimulate the production of stomach acid. This increased acid production can lead to heartburn, acid reflux, and discomfort, particularly for individuals who already have a sensitive stomach or are prone to digestive issues. The excess acid can irritate the lining of the stomach and esophagus, causing a burning sensation and potentially disrupting sleep.

Caffeine, the primary active ingredient in coffee, is a natural stimulant that can accelerate the digestive process. While this can be beneficial in the morning to kickstart the day, consuming coffee late in the evening can result in a heightened state of alertness and increased bowel movements. This can disrupt the natural rhythm of the digestive system, potentially leading to loose stools or diarrhea.

Furthermore, coffee has diuretic properties, meaning it can increase urine production and contribute to dehydration. Since hydration is crucial for proper digestion, consuming coffee after dinner may interfere with the body’s ability to maintain adequate hydration levels and impede the smooth functioning of the digestive system.

Post Dinner Latte? 

Post-dinner coffee may not be suitable for everyone due to its potential effects on sleep and digestion. It’s important to consider individual factors, sensitivity to caffeine, and any pre-existing health conditions that could be exacerbated by consuming coffee late in the day.

Some individuals are more sensitive to the stimulating effects of caffeine, which can interfere with their ability to fall asleep or have a restful night’s sleep. For those who are prone to insomnia or have sleep disorders, it is generally advisable to avoid consuming coffee, especially in the evening.

Additionally, individuals with certain digestive conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or gastritis, may find that post-dinner coffee exacerbates their symptoms. The increased production of stomach acid and stimulation of bowel movements caused by coffee can lead to discomfort, heartburn, or digestive disturbances in these individuals.

Tips To Use Coffee to Your Benefit

  1. Start small with espresso: Opt for a small serving of espresso instead of a large cup of coffee. Espresso contains less volume and caffeine, which can be gentler on your digestive system. It provides a concentrated burst of flavor without overwhelming your stomach.
  1. Take your coffee black: Avoid adding milk, cream, or sweeteners to your coffee after dinner. These additions can increase the fat content and acidity of the drink, potentially leading to indigestion or acid reflux. Enjoying your coffee black allows you to savor the flavors without introducing potential irritants.
  1. Try decaf: Consider switching to decaffeinated coffee after dinner. Decaf coffee offers the familiar taste and aroma of regular coffee but with reduced levels of caffeine. This can be beneficial for individuals who are more sensitive to caffeine’s stimulating effects or have trouble sleeping after consuming regular coffee.
  1. Enjoy another warm post-dinner drink: If you still crave a warm beverage after dinner but want to avoid coffee, there are various alternatives that can support digestion. Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, or ginger can have soothing properties for the stomach. These teas can aid in digestion, reduce bloating, and promote relaxation.

By following these tips, you can make conscious choices that support better digestion after dinner while still enjoying a warm and satisfying beverage. Remember to listen to your body and adjust your choices based on your personal preferences and tolerances.

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Get ripped and hydrated: The ultimate workout hydration drinks that will take your training to the next level!

workout hydration drinks

As the scorching summer heat sets in, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize hydration, especially during workouts. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or engaging in any physical activity, proper hydration is essential for maintaining performance, endurance, and overall well-being. Dehydration can lead to a decline in energy levels, muscle cramps, and even heat-related illnesses. 

So, let’s  explore a range of refreshing and electrolyte-rich drinks that go beyond plain water to keep you adequately hydrated during your workout sessions. From natural options like coconut water and infused beverages to sports drinks designed to replenish electrolytes, discover the seven drinks that will help quench your thirst, restore essential minerals, and keep you performing at your best in the summer heat. Don’t let dehydration hold you back from achieving your fitness goals – stay hydrated and power through your workouts with these hydrating beverage choices.

  1. Homemade Electrolyte Drink: This DIY drink is designed to replenish electrolytes lost through sweating. It typically includes a combination of water, a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, a pinch of salt, and citrus juice. The added electrolytes from salt help restore the body’s electrolyte balance, while the natural sweetener and citrus juice enhance the flavor, making it more enjoyable to drink. Homemade electrolyte drinks provide a refreshing boost of hydration and can be customized to suit individual taste preferences.
  1. Electrolyte Infused Water: Infusing water with fruits, herbs, or vegetables is a popular way to make hydration more exciting. By adding slices of citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or oranges, along with herbs like mint or cucumber, you can create flavorful infused water that provides a hint of natural sweetness and a refreshing taste. While infused water may not have the same electrolyte content as other beverages, it still encourages increased water consumption and helps keep you hydrated.
  1. Coconut Water: Coconut water is a natural hydrating beverage that contains a good amount of electrolytes, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, making it a popular choice for staying hydrated during hot summer days. Coconut water not only quenches your thirst but also replenishes important electrolytes, making it an excellent alternative to traditional sports drinks.
  1. Watermelon Juice: Watermelon is a delicious and hydrating fruit with a high water content. Its juice provides natural hydration along with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Watermelon juice is not only refreshing but also helps replenish fluids, making it a perfect choice for staying hydrated during summer.
  1. Gatorade: Gatorade is a popular sports drink that contains electrolytes and carbohydrates. It is specifically designed to replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during intense physical activity or prolonged sweating. Gatorade provides a quick source of energy and can be beneficial in situations where vigorous exercise or prolonged exertion is involved. However, it’s important to note that Gatorade may contain added sugars and should be consumed in moderation.
  1. Pedialyte: Originally formulated to help rehydrate children, Pedialyte has gained popularity as a hydration solution for people of all ages. It contains a balanced amount of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and chloride, which aid in restoring the body’s fluid balance. Pedialyte can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing dehydration due to illness or excessive heat.

While these drinks can help with hydration, it’s important to remember that water should still be your primary source of hydration. It’s the most natural and essential drink for staying properly hydrated. Additionally, individual preferences, dietary needs, and specific situations should be considered when choosing the right hydrating beverages for optimal hydration in the summer.

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TagZ Foods gains Shikhar Dhawan’s backing, enlists him as brand ambassador for nutritious snacking

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tagz
The collaboration between TagZ Foods and Shikhar Dhawan is poised to launch in the near future, accompanied by an array of marketing and advertising initiatives designed to showcase the brand's exceptional snacking experiences.

TagZ Foods, an urban snack brand headquartered in Bengaluru, has revealed its exciting collaboration with Shikhar Dhawan, the renowned Indian cricketer, who will be joining the company as an investor and brand ambassador.

Shikhar Dhawan, recognized for his explosive batting style, fervor for fitness, and immense popularity among the youth, seamlessly complements TagZ Foods’ mission to offer healthier snacking options. This brand collaboration perfectly resonates with Dhawan’s emphasis on fitness and his dedication to leading an active lifestyle. Together, they form an ideal alliance committed to promoting fitter snacking experiences.

Speaking about the partnership, Shikhar Dhawan said, “I am thrilled to be associated with TagZ Foods, a brand that is dedicated to promoting fittersnacking habits. As a sportsman, I understand the importance of eating better and leading an active lifestyle. I am excited to be a part of TagZ Foods’ journey as it leapfrogs into its next orbit of growth and expansion. This is a deep and long-term partnership in my dual role as investor and brand ambassador at TagZ.”

TagZ Foods has emerged as a leading provider of delicious and wholesome snacking options for consumers. Their assortment of popped chips, hemp cookies, and gourmet dips from around the world ensures a delightful and healthier snacking experience. By teaming up with Shikhar Dhawan, TagZ Foods aims to expand its reach to a wider audience and inspire them to opt for superior snacking alternatives. Together, they aspire to motivate consumers to make informed choices when it comes to their snacking habits.

Commenting on the partnership, Anish Basu Roy, Cofounder of TagZ Foods said, “We are delighted to welcome Shikhar Dhawan to Team TagZ as our brand ambassador. He embodies the values that we stand for – better eating, fitness and an active lifestyle. His association with TagZ Foods in his dual capacity as investor and brand ambassador is deep integration into our brand’s mission. We hope to provide his fans with the fittest snacking experiences through our range of popped potato chips with 50% less fat, hemp cookies and gourmet dips.”

TagZ Foods leverages state-of-the-art food technology to create popped potato chips that boast a remarkable 50% reduction in fat content. These chips are not only low in fat but are also free from cholesterol, trans fats, artificial colors, and preservatives. By employing innovative techniques, TagZ Foods ensures that their products align with health-conscious consumers’ preferences, offering them a guilt-free snacking option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

The collaboration between TagZ Foods and Shikhar Dhawan is poised to launch in the near future, accompanied by an array of marketing and advertising initiatives designed to showcase the brand’s exceptional snacking experiences. Through strategic campaigns, both online and offline, TagZ Foods aims to create widespread awareness and generate enthusiasm among consumers, highlighting the unique and satisfying snacking options they offer. With the support of Shikhar Dhawan’s influence and reach, the partnership endeavors to make a significant impact in promoting TagZ Foods as a preferred choice for discerning snack enthusiasts.

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Zomato makes history as first Indian company to feature in Hollywood blockbuster ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’

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Zomato
To commemorate this extraordinary partnership, Zomato has organized a series of promotional endeavors.

Zomato, the premier food ordering and delivery platform in India, recently made an exciting announcement about its remarkable collaboration with the highly anticipated Hollywood film ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.’ This pioneering partnership signifies the first-ever integration of an Indian company within a Hollywood movie, showcasing Zomato’s prominent brand during a crucial moment in the film.

Sony Pictures Entertainment India has announced its ambitious plan to double the number of screens for the highly anticipated film ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ compared to its predecessor, the critically acclaimed and Oscar-winning ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,’ which was released in June 2018. This strategic move reflects the immense confidence in the upcoming film and aims to provide a wider reach for audiences across India.

Shony Panjikaran, General Manager & Head, Sony Pictures Releasing International, India, expressed his excitement, stating, “‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ has been creating a lot of buzz in India with multiple milestones, including a first-time-ever 10-language theatrical release and a collaboration with Indian cricketer Shubman Gill as the voice of Indian Spider-Man. Zomato has always been at the forefront of innovation, both in its services and marketing. We are proud of this association and delighted to have formed such an exclusive and unprecedented collaboration in India.”

Sahibjeet Singh Sawhney, Marketing Head, Zomato, commented on the integration, stating, “At Zomato, we believe in moving onwards and upwards. Today, we are excited to share our next big achievement – our integration with Hollywood! You will see Zomato in the movie ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,’ releasing on 1st June. This one-of-a-kind integration showcases an Indian company in a Hollywood film for the first time globally. We express our gratitude to the Indian arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International for this collaboration. Their team’s efforts over the years have been remarkable in making Spider-Man one of India’s favorite superheroes. We encourage everyone to watch the movie and enjoy the action.”

To commemorate this extraordinary partnership, Zomato has organized a series of promotional endeavors. This includes captivating out-of-home billboard advertisements and eye-catching sky buses that will be seen in four prominent cities: Bangalore, Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai. Zomato’s application will feature an exclusive Spider-Man crystal, while captivating animated videos will be showcased across various digital platforms. This collaboration with ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ represents a significant milestone in Zomato’s journey, showcasing the global recognition of an Indian company in the entertainment world. Zomato remains fully committed to engaging with its customers on innovative and novel levels.

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Tea Association of India seeks collective effort to address challenges faced by tea industry in Assam and West Bengal

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tea garden
(Representative Image)

In view of the adverse climate conditions, subdued international and domestic markets, and their profound impact on the tea industry, the Tea Association of India (TAI), representing tea producers in Assam and West Bengal, has underscored the importance of collective action and collaboration from all stakeholders. TAI recognizes that addressing these challenges and ensuring the industry’s resilience and growth require a joint effort and cooperation among all involved parties.

Concerned by the challenges faced in the current season, the Tea Association of India (TAI) represents tea producers in Assam and West Bengal and acknowledges the pressing issues affecting the tea industry in these regions.

The tea industry in Assam and North Bengal is currently facing the adverse consequences of climate change. Unpredictable weather patterns, extreme temperatures, and inadequate rainfall have had a profound impact on the volume and quality of tea production. The shifting climate presents notable obstacles to the long-term viability and efficiency of tea gardens, demanding urgent actions to adjust and alleviate its influence.

In addition to the challenges posed by climate change, the tea industry in Assam and North Bengal is also facing a decline in demand in both international and domestic markets. Factors such as oversupply of tea in the global market and shifting consumer preferences have contributed to the weakened demand for tea from these regions. It is imperative that we work together to actively seek out new market opportunities, promote the unique qualities of our teas, and address any regulatory barriers that hinder trade.

Ajay Jalan, President, Tea Association of India stated “All stakeholders, including tea producers, industry leaders, retailers, government bodies, and experts, to come together and collaborate on finding innovative solutions. We must prioritize sustainable practices, diversification of markets, and the development of adaptive strategies to overcome these challenges. By fostering an inclusive dialogue and sharing best practices, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of the tea industry and the livelihoods of those dependent on it.”

Prabir Bhattacharya, General Secretary, TAI said,“The Tea Association of India remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting and advocating for the tea industry in Assam and North Bengal. We will actively engage with government authorities, industry partners, and other stakeholders to address the critical issues at hand. Through focused initiatives, research, and partnerships, we aim to foster a conducive environment for the growth and prosperity of the tea industry.”

He further said, “We call upon the respective state governments, policymakers, market participants, and consumers to join hands in supporting the tea industry during these challenging times. Together, we can navigate the complexities, unlock opportunities, and build a sustainable and resilient future for Assam and North Bengal teas.”

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ITC elevates Aishwarya Pratap Singh to Chief Business Officer, enhancing Yoga Bar’s management team

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Aishwarya Pratap Singh
Previously, Aishwarya Pratap Singh held the position of Vice President and was responsible for overseeing the marketing efforts for snacks, noodles, and pasta at ITC.

ITC has announced the elevation of Aishwarya Pratap Singh as the Chief Business Officer at Yoga Bar. In a recent LinkedIn update, Singh shared the exciting news. It is important to mention that this new role is a result of Singh’s deputation to Sproutlife Foods.

Previously, Singh held the position of Vice President and was responsible for overseeing the marketing efforts for snacks, noodles, and pasta at ITC. During his tenure, he successfully led the marketing strategies for ITC’s popular brands, Yippee and Bingo.

In June 2008, Singh joined the Kolkata-based FMCG giant as the Channel Manager – Key Accounts, marking the beginning of his tenure with the company.

Throughout his impressive 15-year tenure with the company, Singh made significant contributions across various brands under ITC’s umbrella. In addition to his work on ITC’s snacks, noodles, and pasta brands, he also played a crucial role in the success of other product lines. This included his involvement with ITC’s agarbatti brand Mangaldeep, as well as the matches brands Aim, Ship, and Homelites. Singh’s diverse experience across multiple brands showcases his versatility and expertise within the organization.

Prior to his association with ITC, Singh held the position of Sales and Operations Manager for Andhra Pradesh at Dabur.

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Uttar Pradesh to unveil Asia’s largest fish market in Chandauli district by July next year

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fish market
If the fish market operates at full capacity, approximately 75,000 metric tonnes of fish will be traded annually. (Representative Image)

Asia’s largest fish market is currently under construction in Chandauli district, located in eastern Uttar Pradesh. The ambitious project is set to be completed by July next year.

Sanjay Nishad, the minister for fisheries in Uttar Pradesh, announced that the construction of the state-of-the-art wholesale fish market in Chandauli will provide employment opportunities for around 1,500 people, both directly and indirectly.

According to the minister’s statement, if the fish market operates at full capacity, approximately 75,000 metric tonnes of fish will be traded annually.

According to the minister, the tenure of the Modi government has been focused on good governance and the welfare of the underprivileged. He further emphasized that significant measures have been implemented to ensure the comprehensive well-being of the fishing community under the current administration.

Additionally, he highlighted that the fisheries sector has made a substantial contribution to India’s GDP growth rate.

“The fishermen’s welfare fund will be used for the community. Previous governments considered the fishermen community a vote bank but did not work for their welfare,” he said.

The minister, belonging to the Nishad party and an ally of the BJP in Uttar Pradesh, also expressed that the installation of a 56-feet statue of Lord Ram and Nishad Raj in Prayagraj would be undertaken in the near future.

The decision to install a statue each of Nishad Raj in Ayodhya on the banks of Sarayu and at Telianala Ghat on the Ganga banks in Varanasi was also a matter of pride for the Nishad community, he said.

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National dairy giant Mother Dairy to set up mega unit in Nagpur with INR 400 Crore investment

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mother dairy
The company is going to procure 30 lakh litres of milk daily from farmers. (Representative Image)

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced on Sunday that Mother Dairy is set to invest INR 400 crore in Nagpur. As part of this venture, the government has committed to providing 10 hectares of land.

During a press conference aimed at showcasing the accomplishments of the Narendra Modi government over a span of nine years, the senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Member of Parliament for Nagpur Lok Sabha constituency informed the reporters that the proposed unit will be responsible for supplying dairy products throughout the entire country.

“The company is going to procure 30 lakh litres of milk daily from farmers. It will benefit farmers of Nagpur and other districts of Vidarbha,” he said.

Established in 1974 as a crucial component of Operation Flood, Mother Dairy stands as a fully owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).

When asked about employment opportunities in the region, Gadkari disclosed that a significant number of 68,000 individuals were employed in MIHAN, a thriving hub hosting numerous companies. He further highlighted that employment had witnessed growth in both the public and private sectors.

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Lobby group challenges WHO’s non-sugar sweetener guidelines, claiming lack of scientific rigor

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non-sugar sweeteners
The World Health Organization (WHO) previously stated that non-sugar sweeteners like aspartame and stevia do not contribute to weight loss and may even elevate the risk of certain diseases. (Representative Image)

A lobby group comprising well-known brands such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Red Bull, Dabur, Tetra Pak, and others, has expressed its belief that the recent guidelines on non-sugar sweeteners issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) are not sufficiently grounded in scientific rigor.

The World Health Organization (WHO) previously stated that non-sugar sweeteners like aspartame and stevia do not contribute to weight loss and may even elevate the risk of certain diseases. In response, health organizations have advocated for the inclusion of “restrictive use only” labels on all food and beverage products containing artificial sweeteners.

Read More: WHO’s latest guideline advises against using artificial sweeteners for weight management

A senior Indian Beverage Association (IBA) executive who didn’t want to be named said, “It is a disservice to public health to not recognise the role of low or no-calorie sweeteners in reducing sugar intake” amid a global obesity crisis. “IBA has been engaging with concerned authorities in the country to seek their alignment for a favourable policy regime in this regard,” he said.

WHO recommendations should have been based on the comprehensive set of available evidence, the person said.

“WHO could only conclude a conditional recommendation, which is not scientifically rigorous, nor based on a robust evidence base,” the executive said.

The beverage association’s website lists several notable food and beverage companies, such as Britannia, Paper Boat, Parle Agro, Bisleri, ITC, Mondelez, and Tata NourishCo, among others, as “associate members.”

The sales of various products, including diet colas, ice creams, juices, breakfast cereals, confectionery, and no-sugar cooking alternatives, have experienced significant double-digit growth. This trend has been further accelerated during the Covid-19 pandemic, as consumers have increasingly shifted towards low-sugar beverages and foods due to heightened health consciousness.

On May 15th, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that its guidelines and recommendations regarding non-sugar sweeteners are contingent upon the existing evidence and encompass both synthetic and natural sweeteners, including aspartame, saccharin, sucralose, and stevia.

“Replacing free sugars with non-sugar sweeteners does not help with weight control in the long term,” Francesco Branca, WHO director for nutrition and food safety, had said in a detailed statement, adding that such sweeteners “are not essential dietary factors and have no nutritional value.”

The IBA executive said the industry body “would join others, including relevant government agencies who have responded to the public consultation on the draft guidelines, expressing their concerns about the conclusions and rationale used by WHO.”

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the national regulatory body for food, has confirmed that it is currently conducting an evaluation of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended guidelines through a scientific panel.

Industry executives have expressed concerns that implementing guidelines and labeling changes mandating warnings on products containing non-sugar sweeteners could potentially impact sales of diet foods. Currently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) does not possess specific and detailed guidelines regarding the usage of sweeteners in food and beverages.

Read More: FSSAI assessing WHO’s red flag on sugar substitutes, potential impact on sales of diet and no-sugar products

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the latest regulations are part of a comprehensive set of existing and upcoming guidelines pertaining to healthy diets. WHO emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative methods to reduce the consumption of free sugars, such as opting for foods that contain naturally occurring sugars, like fruits, or choosing unsweetened food and beverages.

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