It is perplexing that junk food like fried fingers, burgers, pizzas, cookies, candies, colas, etc. should hold such a strong lure for human beings. According to doctors, this stuff is high in salt, sugar, fat, and calories but low in minerals, vitamins, and fiber, which is harmful to health.
“However, the reality is that it is the rage with students, office goers, people out shopping, tourists on the move, and children of all ages. No amount of condemnation can take away the popularity these foods enjoy,” says Nasir Ali.
“Taste is the strongest motivator, more so than price or convenience. Street food like pakoras, rolls, chaat, paratha rolls, and samosas, is a staple. It is quick, tasty, cheap, and often part of the city’s fabric in bazaars, near offices, around schools,” says Nusrat Ali.
“Some view fast food burgers, fries, shakes, etc., as modern, something that signals a certain lifestyle. Even when people acknowledge traditional foods as better, the lure of fast food remains strong. Pindiites often gorge on junk food despite hygiene or health concerns,” says Qasim Hasan.
“There is increasing concern from health experts about obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases among younger people. Studies indicate a trend of rising health issues tied to regular consumption of high-fat, high-sugar, processed foods,” adds Qasim.
“People know junk food has hazards, but translating awareness to behavior is harder. Taste, cravings, and peer influence all win often,” says Rafaqat Hussain.
“It is hard to resist fried, salty, spicy, sweet items that offer immediate gratification. It is available around corners, near workplaces, close to schools, and in markets. Junk food tends to be cheaper than many healthier options,” says Nazir Alvi.
“For people with busy schedules who are reliant on take-out, it is an easy option. Eating out with friends, family, and following trends is a part of the modern lifestyle. Social media also plays a role in promoting fast food. Many studies suggest that regular consumers of junk food see it as comfort, stress-relief, or simply part of their daily routine,” says Shafqat Naqvi.
“We never think about what is being sacrificed or risked. We face long-term health problems, such as obesity, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, etc. These foods often lack essential nutrients, vitamins, and fiber. There are food safety and hygiene issues, especially with street vendors, expired items, and low monitoring exclusion,” adds Shafqat.
“Loss of traditional eating habits, home-cooked meals, and local culinary practices leads to cultural erosion and economic costs. What people are doing or what could help. Health education campaigns are essential, targeting youth, schools, colleges, ensuring hygiene, food safety, regulating vendors, maybe licensing, inspections,” says Mohsin Zaidi.
Nazia Batool says, “Encouraging traditional, nutritious foods through awareness via universities is essential, even designated zones for street food, safer, cleaner spaces for vendors.”