Milk consumption fundamental to healthy lifestyle: Indian Dietetic Association
Adulteration of milk almost a crisis like situation, strong policy framework needed as a deterrent World Milk Day to be celebrated globally on June 1st
Tweet-- Indian Dietetic Association (IDA) collaborated with Tetra Pak today organized a national awareness seminar on milk, the seminar being a pre curser to the World Milk Day celebrated globally on June 1st. The seminar was attended by nutritionists, members from various industry associations and Government bodies.
Speaking at the seminar, Smt Sheila Dixit, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Government of Delhi, who was the Chief guest on the occasion said “Milk is like nectorfor human body and its releveance is huge in contemporary times when pressures on human bodies are immense””. She added “India being a largely vegetarian society relies heavily on milk for its nutritional needs. Adulteration is rampant owing to shortage of milk and challenge for us is to make our country a land of plenty”.
The seminar saw significant discussions take place on milk and nutritional issues related to it. Senior industry representative delved into laws and regulatory policies on milk adulteration and contamination and were unanimously of the opinion that stringent laws are needed as a deterrent against serial offenders.
“Milk is a powerhouse of natural nutrients containing all the essential vitamins, proteins and minerals that are necessary to sustain a healthy mind and body. While paranoia about all other foods continues, consumers continue to ignore the milk that they consume – probably because of the sanctity attached to it. What we are unaware of is the fact that not all the milk that we consume is pure, instances of adulteration and contaminations of milk are rampant” said Anuja Agarwala, President, Indian Dietetic Association (IDA)
The eminent panel also discussed technologies relating to enhancing shelf life of milk while maintaining it’s nutritional values. The mandate was clearly in favour of Aseptic Technology, which clearly meets both these parameters.
Speaking on Aseptic technology, Mr. DP Tripathi, Sr Advisor, Corporate & Legal Affairs, Aseptic Food Processing & Packaging Industry Association of India (AFPPA) said “Milk treated with Ultra High Temperature (UHT) does not require refrigeration until after it is opened. UHT processing kills all harmful bacteria that are present which is why it can stay intact forever from bacterial spoilage, as long as the packaging is intact”. He added “aseptically packaged UHT milk is 100% preservative free. The special six-layered aseptic packaging keeps milk safe and can be stored without refrigeration for several months”.
Kandarp Singh, Marketing and Product Management Director, South Asia Markets, Tetra Pak said “Tetra Pak has a vision where “we commit to making food safe and available everywhere”. This vision is implemented all across the world with a very clear motto and that is PROTECTS WHAT’S GOOD. In India, we are committed to bring to the consumer, packaged food that is healthy and safe to consume. Packaged long shelf life milk is the core of Tetra Pak’. It is also an essential ingredient of the Indian diet and therefore it will be Tetra Pak’s endeavour to provide consumers with milk that is unadulterated and has its nutrient content intact without the need for boiling or refrigeration before opening”.
Addressing the gathering Dr V.K Batish, Head, Dairy Microbiology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal said “Milk preservation is key to driving increased milk consumption – today owing to lack of scientific knowledge, thousands of litres of milk is wasted. Going forward we need to find innovative ways of ensuring a longer shelf life of milk.”
What sets milk apart from other foods is its high nutritive value, it supplies bodybuilding proteins, bone-forming minerals, health-giving vitamins, furnishes energy-giving lactose and milk fat. Besides supplying certain essential fatty acids, it contains the above nutrients in an easily digestible and palatable form. Dr. Anupa Siddhu, Director, Lady Irwin College, New Delhi said “Milk being the storehouse of nutrients is one of the healthiest options available for all age groups today.”
Notes to Editor
About IDA
Indian Dietetic Association (IDA) is the largest Association representing practicing dieticians across country. IDA has 14 chapters and over 7000 members who are trained dieticians. In addition to 7000 dietitians, IDA also has huge life membership of doctors, Lecturers, scientists and academicians. Being in the capital city, IDA, Delhi Chapter is one of most important chapters of the Association. Delhi chapter alone consists of more than 600 members and our list is increasing at a very fast pace. IDA, Delhi chapter has made a remarkable presence since last 5-6 years and has been given some major tasks by the National president such as getting a Dietetic Council formed for the country.
About Tetra Pak
Tetra Pak is the world's leading food processing and packaging solutions company. Working closely with our customers and suppliers, we provide safe, innovative and environmentally sound products that each day meet the needs of hundreds of millions of people around the world. With over 20,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, we believe in responsible industry leadership and a sustainable approach to business. Our motto, “PROTECTS WHAT’S GOOD,"™ reflects our vision to make food safe and available, everywhere.
More information about Tetra Pak is available at www.tetrapak.com