Junk food

The consumption of junk food among children in Pakistan is increasing day by day. The excessive use of junk food may lead to many complications in children and can directly affect their health. It may lead to undernourishment and malnutrition. Obesity and diabetes is also the outcome of over consumption of junk food. Studies have also shown that the consumption of junk food in children effect their mental health. The inability of children to get required nutrition increases the risk of depression and other mental issues.

There is a strong need to check the growth of junk food production units in the country. The government should put in place quality control units for checking the ever increasing food production outlets. Strong regulatory actions should be taken against the health-hazard food manufacturers. The responsibility also lies upon the parents to train their children about foods selection as soon as they can talk since children are mostly influenced by families during preschool years. The schools can also play a positive part in influencing the children about their food priorities.

Sayyad A Khan

Peshawar