• Rakhi Parijat
• Nilanjana Parijat

Human adaptability was boosted by the agricultural revolution in the world some 12,000 years ago. Agricultural production helped in achieving food security, followed by improved life expectancy. Due to the assured supply of food, non-primary activities also evolved. In response to this development, the twin process of industrialization and urbanization emerged in all major areas of secondary activities. Many urban areas became trade, commerce and manufacturing hubs. With technological intensification, modern day industries started to transform lives of urban dwellers. This new change was also experienced by the agro-processing units. People were no longer just dependent on food that were either locally found or limited by seasonality. This gave rise to processing of plant-based and animal-based food items which could be stored, canned, refrigerated and transported. Thus, food products were available to consumers residing far away from the regions of production. Industries started to profit greatly from food processing, while consumers benefitted from the wide range of products available with much ease. Gradually ‘Ultra Processed Food’ (UPF) became popular in fast food chains and market shelves. Cheaper food items provided hassle free, ready- to- eat food products, and were often associated with women’s liberation from the daily grind in the kitchen. Marketing professionals and even psychologists further added to the flavour by aggressive advertising and luring customers towards this heavily processed chemical laden food. The present study focusses on the role of food processing industry in influencing food choices of people, along with the harmful impacts of these products. It also highlights on the positive interventions through holistic health care and lifestyle changes in reversing physical and psychological health, which is important for long term sustainability of economy and the environment.

Food choices, Ultra Processed Food, lifestyle changes, advertising, holistic health

"Food Choices, Health and Sustainability", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.10, Issue 11, page no.f150-f160, November-2023, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2311516.pdf

"Food Choices, Health and Sustainability", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.10, Issue 11, page no. ppf150-f160, November-2023, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2311516.pdf