India, Jan. 30 -- Economic Survey 2026 calls for ultra-processed foods to be moved to the highest GST slab

Report proposes additional surcharges on products high in sugar, salt and fat

Survey backs front-of-pack warning labels, saying star ratings dilute health risks

Rising obesity and a sharp surge in UPF consumption cited as key concerns

The Economic Survey 2025-26, tabled in Parliament on January 29, 2026, has called for moving ultra-processed foods (UPF) into the highest Goods and Services Tax (GST) slabs and imposing an additional surcharge on products that exceed prescribed thresholds for sugar, salt and fat.

The survey has also recommended replacing the existing health star rating system on packaged foods with prominent front-...