India’s per capita sugar consumption remains relatively low at less than 21 kg annually, significantly lower than many other countries. Yet, obesity rates in the country are rising, sparking debates on imposing higher taxes on sugary products to curb sugar consumption. While such measures aim to address public health concerns, they also pose financial challenges for the sugar industry, which is already struggling with mounting dues, including Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) payments, wage bills, loan repayments, and supplier dues. This article explores why sugar alone cannot be blamed for India’s growing obesity crisis and examines the broader factors contributing to the issue.
SUGAR CONSUMPTION IN OTHER COUNTRIES…
1) United States: The average individual sugar consumption is approximately 126.4 grams per day, translating to about 46.1 kilograms annually.
2) Germany: Individuals consume around 102.9 grams of sugar daily, equating to approximately 37.6 kilograms per year.
3) Netherlands: The daily sugar intake is about 102.5 grams per person, totaling roughly 37.4 kilograms annually.
4) Ireland: Average sugar consumption stands at 96.7 grams per day, or about 35.3 kilograms per year.
5) Australia: Individuals consume approximately 95.6 grams of sugar daily, amounting to around 34.9 kilograms annually.
WHAT ABOUT INDIA ?
Total sugar consumption is 290 Lakh MT’s annually…Total population 140 Crores, hence per capita consumption comes to… 290/140= 20.71 Kg which is less as compared to other countries.
LET US MOVE TOWARDS THE REASONS FOR THE PROBLEM OF OBESITY AS A WHOLE
Obesity occurs when the body accumulates excessive fat due to an imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure. Some key reasons include:
1) Unhealthy Diet – High consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and fast food rich in fats and carbohydrates.
2) Lack of Physical Activity – Sedentary lifestyle due to modern conveniences, work culture, and lack of exercise.
3) Genetics – Family history and genetic factors can make some individuals more prone to obesity.
4) Hormonal Imbalances – Conditions like hypothyroidism, PCOS, and insulin resistance contribute to weight gain.
5) Stress and Mental Health Issues – Emotional eating due to anxiety, depression, or stress leads to excessive calorie intake.
6) Lack of Sleep – Poor sleep patterns disrupt metabolism and increase hunger hormones.
7) Medical Conditions and Medications – Certain drugs like antidepressants, steroids, and diabetes medications can cause weight gain.
8) Urbanization and Technological Advancements – Increased screen time, reduced outdoor activities, and desk jobs contribute to obesity.
Then a question arises: Why Obesity is increasing in India?
While discussing with the Medical Professionals, it is explored that India is experiencing a rise in obesity due to a mix of lifestyle, economic, and socio-cultural changes. Some key reasons include:
1) Westernized Diet – Shift from traditional home-cooked meals to fast food, junk food, and processed items.
2) Increased Sugar Consumption – High intake of sugary drinks, sweets, and refined carbohydrates.
3) Sedentary Lifestyle – Urbanization has reduced physical activity; people rely more on vehicles and desk jobs.
4) Economic Growth and Changing Eating Habits – Rising income levels lead to higher consumption of high-calorie foods.
5) Technology Dependence – More screen time (TV, smartphones, computers) leads to reduced physical movement.
6) Stress and Work Pressure – Longer working hours and high-stress levels result in unhealthy eating habits.
7) Marketing and Food Industry Influence – Aggressive promotion of unhealthy food products, especially to children.
8) Lack of Awareness – Many people underestimate the health risks of obesity and do not prioritize fitness.
9) Cultural Norms – In some communities, being overweight is associated with prosperity and well-being.
Impact : Rising obesity in India is leading to an increase in diabetes, heart disease, and other lifestyle-related illnesses, putting a burden on healthcare systems.
Addressing this requires overall policy changes, awareness campaigns, and individual lifestyle modifications and not only curbing the sugar consumption by increasing taxation on sugar.
Sugar Industry of the country is already facing financial crises, FRP dues are increasing, huge amounts are due to employees, bankers, suppliers etc.
Under such conditions, if our leaders are thinking about increasing taxation on sugar, it will be nothing but pouring oil on a burning fire.
In conclusion, while excessive sugar consumption is a concern, it is not the sole factor driving India’s rising obesity rates. Simply increasing taxes on sugar may not achieve the desired health outcomes and could instead have negative consequences for the struggling sugar industry. A more comprehensive approach, addressing multiple lifestyle and dietary factors, is essential for effectively tackling obesity. Holistic policy measures, including awareness campaigns, improved food regulations, and promotion of healthier lifestyles, will be far more impactful in creating sustainable change.
P.G. Medhe is the former Managing Director of Shri Chhatrapati Rajaram Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana Ltd and sugar industry analyst. He can be contacted at +91 9822329898.
