“You are what you eat,” a simple phrase that holds immense power, especially when it comes to packaged foods. FoodPharmer, a social media influencer passionate about health and wellness, is on a mission to educate consumers about the hidden ingredients lurking behind attractive packaging. Foodpharmer, or Revant Himatsingka’s, recently launched “Label Padhega India” campaign is gaining traction and we’re here with the updates. However, If you haven’t heard about it yet, here’s a little background as well.

Label Padhega India

Following his impactful video exposing the high sugar content in Bournvita and its potential consequences for children, FoodPharmer recently launched a new initiative – Label Padhega India (Read the Label, India). Besides, This movement aims to empower consumers by encouraging them to make informed choices by reading food labels.

The initiative sheds light on the potential health risks associated with packaged foods. FoodPharmer emphasizes the importance of understanding the ingredients list and deciphering the nutritional label. This awareness empowers consumers to identify unhealthy additives, preservatives, and hidden sugars that can negatively impact their health.

Lay’s and the Palm Oil Controversy: A Case Study in Action

FoodPharmer’s dedication extends beyond raising awareness. Revant Himatsingka’s actively highlights discrepancies in food manufacturing practices. However, One such instance involved Lay’s chips. FoodPharmer exposed the use of palm oil in Lay’s Indian products, while the US counterparts used healthier alternatives. Moreover, This pressure from the initiative and consumers likely played a role in Lay’s announcement to replace palm oil with a healthier option in India.

A Star-Studded Call to Action

Label Padhega India isn’t a solo effort. The initiative boasts an impressive list of supporters, including celebrities like Archana Puran Singh, Abhinav Bindra, and Dinesh Karthik, alongside prominent influencers. Furthermore, This collective voice aims to amplify the message and reach a wider audience.

Revant shared a video featuring a small business owner who vows to have print labels with exactly what her products contain. The video features Kaushalya Choudhary, owner of Sidhi Marwadi, a Jodhpur based business that sells products like the “Lal Mirch Powder” she holds in the video.

In another post, he shared a video of Sabeer Bhatia, the co-founder of Hotmail. However, as he accepts the “Label Padhega India” challenge as well.

Etornam C. Tsyawo, a Top Food Science Voice on LinkedIn, from Ghana also shared a post showing support for the health movement. With a picture of her reading food labels, she talks of how most big food companies follow questionable marketing practices and it’s time to make them accountable.

FoodPharmer’s initiative is a significant step towards promoting health consciousness in India. By empowering consumers with knowledge and encouraging them to read labels, Label Padhega India paves the way for a future where individuals make informed choices about the food they eat.

A new study by Spotify India, titled “Audio: Where Creators Come To Pause,” sheds light on the challenges faced by India’s thriving content creation community and their unique coping mechanisms. The research, conducted across three major cities – Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru – surveyed over 200 creators and included in-depth interviews with 30 individuals.

Constant Content Creation Takes A Toll

The findings paint a picture of a passionate yet pressure-filled world. Moreover, Nearly 80% of respondents reported experiencing significant stress or pressure at least once a week. This pressure stems from a multitude of factors, including the constant need to keep up with changing algorithms, the emotional toll of negative feedback, and the physical demands of creating content.

Creators Use Audio to Destress

Interestingly, the study also reveals a powerful tool for managing these pressures: audio. Over half (50%) of the creators surveyed use music as a coping mechanism. However, with 70% agreeing that audio – including music, podcasts, audiobooks, and even guided meditations – plays a crucial role in their well-being. For many, audio serves as a source of inspiration, a mood booster, and a way to manage stress and anxiety. Actor and comedian Mallika Dua perfectly captures this sentiment, stating, “Music is a big part of self-care and my way to gain inner peace. It’s like a person who is always with me in my room, making sure I never feel alone.”

The research also highlights a gender and age disparity in stress levels. Female creators and those between the ages of 30-45 reported feeling stressed. Furthermore, more frequently compared to their male and younger counterparts. Besides, This underscores the need for more targeted support systems within the creator community.

While audio emerges as a powerful self-care tool, the study also identifies a gap in access to professional mental health resources. Nearly half of the respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their current coping mechanisms. Furthermore, yearning for “inclusive and accessible support tools like therapy and counselling.”

A Place Where Creators Can Come To Pause: Spotify India

Recognizing this need, Spotify aims to bridge the gap by positioning itself as a “place where creators can come to pause.” Their efforts include collaborating with mental health experts and hosting on-ground sessions to equip creators. Moreover, with the resources they need to navigate the pressures of their profession.

The Spotify study offers valuable insights into the mental well-being of India’s content creators. It highlights the challenges they face, the power of audio as a coping mechanism. However, the need for more comprehensive support systems. By acknowledging these realities, Spotify positions itself as a potential ally in the journey towards. Moreover, a healthier and more sustainable content creation ecosystem.

Kristi Kikon, a home cook with a fiery passion for Naga cuisine, is on a mission to share the unique flavors of her homeland with the world. Inspired by her mother, a culinary genius who weaved magic with local ingredients, Kristi’s cooking journey is a delicious exploration of tradition and taste from Nagaland.

Explore Traditional Tribal Ingredients

Nagaland, a state nestled in the northeast of India, boasts a vibrant food scene unlike any other. Bamboo shoots, Axone (fermented soybean), Anishi, and a variety of regional specialties form the base of her dishes. But don’t be intimidated! Kristi’s focus is on creating approachable recipes that highlight the essence of Naga cooking. Furthermore, making it accessible to adventurous food lovers everywhere.

For Kristi, cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it’s a creative outlet, a source of joy, and a way to connect with loved ones. The act of feeding someone she cares about fuels her passion and motivates her to share the warmth. Besides, hospitality that lies at the heart of Naga cuisine.

And trust us, Naga cuisine has a lot more than just great meat recipes! Each of the tribes have their own versions of certain recipes and there’s a lot of local ingredients used to prepare delicious meals in their homes every day. In fact, if you ever get the chance to visit a Naga home. Furthermore, you’ll realize exactly why the people prefer eating at home over restaurants! Most traditional homes have a kitchen shed outside their main house, where they store and prepare their food. Moreover, It’s a common site to find a chimney or bonfire like setup over which meat is hung and smoked. They enjoy preparing and eating their meals in these homely kitchens. Furthermore, especially with a glass of Zutho, local rice beer prepared in the state.

Try Kristi’s Smoked Pork with Sumac Recipe:

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And If You’re Vegetarian, We Recommend This Axone Veg Stew Recipe:

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Want to try your hand at recreating these delicious dishes in your own kitchen? Follow Kristi on her Instagram handle @kristi.kikon where she shares authentic Naga recipes. However, using readily available ingredients and clear instructions. And trust us, the ingredients are not as hard to source in most Indian cities now. However, Just do a quick Google search for northeast shops to source them; a lot of them deliver! Be prepared to be surprised by the simplicity and depth of flavor in Naga cooking!

So, ditch the takeout menu and embark on a culinary adventure with Kristi Kikon. Explore the unique ingredients, vibrant flavors, and rich traditions that define Naga cuisine. With a little guidance from Kristi, you’ll be whipping up impressive. Besides, delicious meals that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Nagaland.