Food Safety Concerns and Findings at Eat Right Fest

At the Eat Right Fest in Kollam, during the panel discussion, officials revealed that packaged chilli powder tested free of pesticide residues, while homemade chilli powder contained them. Dr T.S. Aneesh, Professor at Kozhikode Medical College, explained that failing to remove chilli stalks before grinding increases pesticide presence.

Cassava Quality and Dietary Recommendations

Cassava quality has improved, and thick cassava, which harms the kidneys and liver, is no longer available. Experts have warned that the keto diet does not benefit children. Dr. Anita Mohan, Nutrition Program Officer at the Directorate of Health, noted that shifting work patterns over the past 20 years have significantly altered cooking habits. She emphasized the importance of eating meals at fixed times and in appropriate portions.

Nutritional Guidelines for Adolescents

Adolescents must eat a proper meal in the morning instead of just a light breakfast. They should fill half of their plate with vegetables and restrict rice to one-fourth. A.K. Mini, Retired Joint Commissioner of Food Safety Enforcement, stressed the need for balanced meals and coordinated efforts to ensure good nutrition. She called for strict monitoring of agricultural practices, production, storage, and distribution. Authorities have initiated steps to reduce vanaspati use to 2% by 2026, lowering the current permitted level of 5%.

Regulations on Pesticide Use

The Agricultural University now approves only new-generation pesticides, according to Dr. A.H. Shamsia, Assistant Professor at Sadanandapuram Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kollam. The event featured an inaugural address by Collector N. Devidas, with Assistant Food Safety Commissioner T.S. Vinod Kumar presiding. Other speakers included District Supply Officer S.O. Bindu, District Kudumbashree Mission Coordinator R. Vimal Chandran, District Women and Child Development Officer P. Biji, Medical Officer Dr. Divya, and Nodal Food Safety Officer A. Aneesh.

‘Eat Right India’ Initiative

The Central Food Safety Authority launched ‘Eat Right India’ to promote safe and nutritious eating habits nationwide. Organizers conducted poster design competitions, millet-based dish contests, millet product exhibitions, and cultural programs to support the initiative.

Guidelines for Diabetics: Fruit Consumption

Diabetics can safely consume fruits, but they must control the quantity and timing, stated Dr. T.S. Aneesh, Professor at the Community Medicine Department, Kozhikode Medical College. He advised eating fruits between meals rather than with the main meal. He also debunked several dietary myths, highlighting the spread of misinformation through ‘WhatsApp University.’

Balanced Diet Considerations for Kerala Cuisine

Kerala’s traditional ‘sadya’ does not provide a balanced meal. People following a vegetarian diet should include milk and curd. While parotta remains popular, parents must educate children about its unhealthy nature. Recent tests found no pesticide residues in apples, but analysts detected 10 types of pesticides in curry leaves and high pesticide levels in chilies. Dr. Aneesh advised washing and cooking vegetables thoroughly before consumption.

Source: Manoramaonline