A large section of population, particularly women and children in India and other South Asian countries suffer from micronutrient (minerals and vitamins) deficiencies resulting in low immunity, anemia, bone disorders, growth retardation etc. They also adversely affect capacity to work with fall in productivity in offices and factories and poor grades in schools. One way these can be prevented is through consumption of foods fortified with micronutrients.
Imbalance between energy expenditure and energy intake combined with genetic factors and environmental factors are leading to increase in the problem of Overweight and Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, Asthma, Hypertension, Cardiovascular Diseases etc. in adults, adolescents and children. Physical activity combined with balanced diet are important for leading a healthy life.
Food safety is critically important for improving public health. ILSI-India has devoted attention to critical issues in food safety, adoption of science based decision making, new technologies for food processing, new food packaging technologies, capacity building, training programs, harmonization of food regulations, adoption of HACCP, GMP and Risk Assessment, safety of GM foods etc.
ILSI-India is a science based institution and brings together scientists to discuss issues relevant to public health. It works with Government, Research Institutes, International Organizations and Food Allied Industries on scientific issues particularly those relating to food safety, risk assessment, nutrition and biotechnology.
