Childhood obesity: Odisha School and Mass Education issues advisory for reducing usage of cooking oil

In a bid to promote a healthier lifestyle among students, the Odisha School and Mass Education Department has issued an advisory for reducing the usage of cooking oil by 10 percent. The Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN) Scheme is a flagship rights-based, Centrally Sponsored Scheme that is aimed at providing nutritious meals to students.

This initiative benefits all children enrolled in Bal-Vatika and Classes I-VIII in Government and Government-Aided Schools. As excessive oil consumption has been linked to various health concerns, such as obesity, heart disease, and digestive issues, it is imperative to raise awareness about mindful oil consumption in daily meals.

Childhood obesity is an increasing concern in today's world. There is an urgent need to educate students on the adverse effects of excessive consumption of oil and its connection to obesity. The PM POSHAN scheme presents an excellent opportunity to instil healthy eating habits, encouraging students to prepare and consume fresh, nutritious meals with minimal oil. 

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PM POSHAN Benefits:

Under the PM POSHAN scheme, meals are carefully prepared to be nutritionally balanced, incorporating fortified rice/wheat/coarse grains, pulses, and green leafy vegetables. Fortified edible oil (enriched with Vitamin A & D) and Double Fortified Salt (DFS) are used in measured quantities -5 grams for primary and 7.5 grams for upper primary students—to maintain optimal calorie intake from fats. 

Additionally, vegetables grown in School Nutrition Gardens are directly utilized, ensuring freshness while reducing carbon footprints. By actively engaging in gardening, students develop an appreciation for nutritious food, reconnect with nature, and stay physically active. 

Advisory:

To raise awareness among students on the benefits of reduced oil consumption, the following activities are recommended:
1.    Conduct a special class on the importance of minimizing oil usage in meals. 

2.    Invite nutrition experts from Home Science colleges and Health Institutions to deliver informative sessions on 'low-oil diets' and share healthy recipes.

3.    Organize school-level quiz competitions on healthy eating habits, with appropriate rewards for winners.  Encourage participation in "Eco-Club activities" such as talks, group discussions and essay writing on nutrition and well-being.

4.    Reinforce the significance of regular "exercise and yoga" to maintain a healthy lifestyle and burn excess calories.

5.    The Teachers may be trained to identify obesity in students and guide parents on portion control and increasing physical activity of the student.

6.    Students may be encouraged to prepare low-oil recipes at home under supervision, share pictures on social media and promote healthier eating habits.

7.    Awareness Campaigns may be organized at district, block and school levels through seminars, workshops and guest lectures by doctors, health experts and nutritionists to educate students about the risks of excessive oil consumption.

8.    Appoint student Health Ambassadors in schools to educate peers and advocate for better food choices.

9.    Assign student projects to track their oil consumption and observe changes in their health and energy levels.

10.    Promote healthier cooking techniques such as steaming, grilling, boiling and baking instead of deep-frying in schools or at home. 

11.    Encourage measured pouring of oil to control portion sizes effectively.

12.    Advocate for minimal consumption of processed foods and snacks, which often contain hidden oils and unhealthy fats.