Hyderabad: Experts from the University of Hyderabad (UoH) panel advocated for the promotion of urban farming and a return to cultural food practices as key strategies to combat unhealthy eating habits and the risks posed by pesticide contamination. This was the focal point of a panel discussion on 'My Plate for the Day: Real Insights into the Dietary Guidelines by ICMR, NIN,' organised by ASPIRE-BioNEST in collaboration with Miracle Me and IKP Hyderabad.
The event was part of the Global Bio-India Roadshow held at the School of Life Sciences, UoH.
The panel discussion, moderated by Maithreye Murali, founder of Miracle Me, brought together experts like Dr Sairam Reddy, co-founder of Urban Kisan, Dr Ajay Tumaney, associate professor at UoH’s Department of Biochemistry, Dr Nida Fatima Hazari, a freelancing nutritional psychologist; Lakshmi Tejasvi, a sports nutritionist; and Dr Koteshwara Prasad, an orthopaedic surgeon.
The experts unanimously agreed on the importance of urban farming as a sustainable way to reduce pesticide contamination in produce, with Dr Sairam Reddy advocating for its widespread adoption. Dr Ajay Tumaney stressed the need to introduce healthy eating habits from a young age, particularly in schools, while Dr Nida Fatima emphasised the role of government initiatives in promoting balanced diets, urging for more public awareness.
Lakshmi Tejasvi highlighted the dangers of junk food and fad diets, advising a return to simpler, healthier food choices. Dr Koteshwara Prasad underscored the value of staying connected to traditional food practices, which he argued are crucial for long-term health.
The panelists collectively urged the audience to adhere to the dietary guidelines set by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), integrating these into their daily routines as a step towards better health.
