Applicability and challenges of nova classification in Indian dietary patterns: A narrative review

Abstract:

The current state of rapid urbanization, industrialization, and globalization in the world has resulted in intentional changes in the global food supply, and consequently, food systems have changed considerably over the past few decades leading to significant shift in food consumption globally (Popkin et al., 2020) [24]. One of the more significant consequences of this metamorphosis is the rise in the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which are becoming an increasing focus of the poor nutritional quality of food circles and of association with a higher risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The NOVA classification system is a system of food categorization based on the level and intent of industrial food processing – it has been widely adopted in nutrition epidemiology and public health research .NOVA framework has been well studied in the West but, not quite in an Indian context The dietary patterns of Indians are highly culturally diverse and multi-component dishes are commonplace and the food practices differ from region to region and may not necessarily fit into the NOVA categories (Shukla et al., 2017) [28]. We have foods which are a bit tricky to classify like dosa batter, packaged curd, paneer, masala mixes, and old fashion sweets. The review critically looks at the applicability of NOVA classification to the Indian dietary context, methodological limitations and cultural changes, and explores public health implications regarding the rise of UPF consumption in India.