India Food Stats

French beans are called so because they were introduced to Europe through France and became popular there before spreading to other parts of the world. It’s more about culinary influence than botanical origin . The common bean plant (Phaseolus vulgaris) is originally native to Central and South America . After the Columbian exchange in the 15th and 16th centuries, beans were brought to Europe. They became widely cultivated and consumed in France, especially the tender green variety (what we now call “French beans” or “green beans”). Over time, this slim, delicate variety got associated with French cuisine and was commonly referred to as “French beans”, especially in English-speaking countries. They are also known as snap beans, green beans, or string beans in other regions. Raw green beans are 90% water , 7% carbohydrates, 2% protein, and contain negligible fat. In 2020, China led as the top producer, contributing 77% of the total, with Indonesia and India following behind. To pick ou...

Watermelon contains more than 91 percent water. It’s therefore also low in calories — a one-cup serving has just 46. Older people, in particular, may find it easier and more enjoyable to get some of their fluids through fruit. Watermelon is naturally free of fat and sodium, making it great for heart health. L-citrulline, an amino acid, and lycopene, a micronutrient, both found in abundance in watermelon, may contribute to better heart health. From Video settings, choose preferred language

In this hilarious two-part series, Amit narrates his attempts to outsmart “waistline politics” — from suspicious almond milk and superfoods that become super-fails, to yoga classes hotter than Mumbai summers and gym trainers who double as drill sergeants. Whether it’s his wife’s relentless quest to make him the Indian Milind Soman, or the avalanche of unsolicited advice from friends who Google more than they gym, Amit’s take on getting fit is painfully relatable and laugh-out-loud funny.

First introduced in 1907 in Old Delhi by herbalist Hakim Abdul Majeed , Rooh Afza is a traditional concentrated syrup (sharbat) that remains a dominant player in the South Asian beverage segment.  Developed originally as a herbal remedy to combat the effects of extreme summer heat—such as heat stroke and dehydration—the formulation is based on Unani medicine principles . Image source: OpenFoodFacts.org Produced by Hamdard Laboratories , Rooh Afza is sold primarily in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, each operated independently by local Hamdard trusts established after the 1947 partition and 1971 formation of Bangladesh.  Minor changes have been made to ingredients over time due to regional availability, but the core formulation remains largely intact. Originally packaged in glass bottles, Rooh Afza is now available in plastic packaging and has expanded its product line to include fruit juice blends, yogurt drinks, and a sugar-free version targeted at higher-income consumers...

Central and state government free food schemes have transformed food security and helped millions avoid hunger.  Central Government Schemes like Public Distribution System (PDS) and National Food Security Act (NFSA) ensure access to food grains at subsidized prices for low-income families. It has over 800 million beneficiaries, including Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Households (PHH). Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) launched in  March 2020, as a COVID-19 relief measure, 5kg of free rice or wheat per person per month was provided in addition to existing entitlements. As of 2023, merged into the regular NFSA, making 5kg grain entitlement free for all NFSA beneficiaries. Mid-Day Meal Scheme (PM Poshan) provides nutritious cooked meals to school children, improve enrollment and attendance. Children in government and government-aided schools (classes I–VIII) get daily hot meals meeting minimum nutrition standards. The scheme also provides nutri...