Economic Survey 2026: Why the Government Wants You to Ditch "Junk" (And Return to Roots)

The War on Ultra-Processed Food & The Rise of Heritage Eating | The Heritage Peti

The War on Ultra-Processed Food & The Rise of Heritage Eating

Published: January 30, 2026 Wellness • Economics • Heritage

The Economic Survey 2025-26 Explore on Amazon has been placed in Parliament just now, and most experts are stuck on the GDP figures (a healthy 7%!) and inflation graphs, but there is a "hidden headline" that every Indian mother must know.

For the first time, the Economic Survey has raised a huge red flag about Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and the rising incidence of obesity in India. It clearly indicates that we must shift away from "junk" foods and go back to eating "real" food.

At The Heritage Peti, we have been harping on this point all along. But now, it's not just grandma's advice - it's economic policy.

Here's how the Economic Survey 2026 impacts your kitchen, your health, and your wallet.

1. The "Red Flag" on Processed Foods

The Survey points out that India is emerging as one of the fastest-growing markets for ultra-processed foods (chips, cookies, and fizzy drinks). This is resulting in a public health crisis.

The Takeaway

The government is encouraging stricter labeling and possibly higher taxes on processed junk.

The Heritage Peti Solution

This is the year to check your labels. Our Thekua and Ladoos have zero preservatives, zero palm oil, and zero chemicals. We are the "Clean Label" movement that the economy is rooting for.

2. The "Premiumization" of the Indian Plate

One of the most interesting trends noted in 2025-26 is "Premiumization." Indians are no longer just buying more food; they are buying better food. As disposable incomes rise, families are choosing quality over quantity-swapping refined sugar for Jaggery, and refined oil for Desi Ghee.

Smart Investment

Instead of buying cheap snacks that cost you in healthcare later, invest in Heritage Ghee Besan Ladoos. It's not an expense; it's an investment in your family's longevity.

Shop Heritage Ladoos

3. Inflation is Down = Better Budget for Health

Good news! The Survey reports the lowest inflation rates in years, specifically driven by falling vegetable and pulse prices.

What to do with the savings?

With the cost of basics stabilizing, you can allocate that extra budget to upgrading your kitchen staples. Ditch the plastic storage and non-stick pans for sustainable tools that last a lifetime.

The "Heritage Kitchen" Upgrade (Amazon Finds)

To help you align with the 2026 wellness trends, here are a few investments we recommend for your kitchen.

Cast Iron Cookware

The Survey talks about "Swadeshi" resilience. Nothing is more resilient than a Cast Iron Kadhai Shop on Amazon . It adds iron to your diet naturally.

View Cast Iron Collection

Glass Storage Jars

Keep your Heritage Peti snacks fresh without plastic toxins. Try these Airtight Glass Barni/Jars Shop on Amazon for optimal food preservation.

Shop Glass Jars

Books on Traditional Wisdom

Understanding why we eat what we eat is crucial. We recommend Indian Superfoods by Rujuta Diwekar Shop on Amazon for deepening your knowledge of heritage nutrition.

Explore Books

4. Nari Shakti: Women Leading the Economy

The Survey proudly points out an increase in Female Labor Force Participation (41.7%). The Heritage Peti is based on this same spirit. Our recipes are passed down by the women of our families, and our brand supports local artisans. When you shop with us, you are not only buying a treat; you are participating in the "Nari Shakti" economy.

Conclusion: The Economics of Eating Right

The Economic Survey 2026 has one message loud and clear: The future of India is bright, but only if we are healthy enough to enjoy it. The return to "Indian Heritage" from "Western Junk" is not a trend; it's the future.

This weekend, let's promise to eat right. Open a Heritage Peti, not a box of poison.

Shop the Clean Label Collection

Experience the taste of heritage with our preservative-free, handcrafted traditional snacks.

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The Heritage Peti

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