The richest Indian households can eat fruit most often
India's richest households are nearly twice as likely to eat fruit every week as those who live in its poorest households. In contrast, rich and poor households are equally likely to eat fried foods.
The National Family Health Survey asks respondents a series of questions on how often they consume specific food items. Respondents are asked whether they eat items such as fruits, fried foods, milk and vegetables daily, weekly, occasionally, or not at all. The survey also measures household wealth using an index based on assets and housing conditions. Households are then ranked and divided into five equal groups or quintiles.
Those in poorer households eat fried food more frequently than fruits. According to the National Institute of Nutrition, unhealthy, highly processed, high-fat, sugar and salt foods have become more affordable and accessible than the healthier alternatives like fruits. Low fruit intake can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, which can affect immunity and overall health. At the same time, frequent consumption of fried food is associated with higher risks of obesity, heart disease and other non-communicable diseases. Together, these trends suggest that poorer households may be more exposed to both under-nutrition and diet-related health issues.
There are also differences across regions and gender. Urban populations tend to consume fruits more frequently than rural populations, although fried food consumption remains common in both. Women generally report slightly lower consumption of both fruits and fried foods compared to men.
Read more about the food habits of Indians.
