KARACHI, Oct 16: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), Karachi, has expressed concern over the quality of food available in the country.

In a statement on the occasion of the World Food Day, PMA Karachi General Secretary, Dr Qaiser Sajjad, said that we were consuming very poor quality food, rich in fats, cholesterol and carbohydrates.

He pointed out that the younger generation was more inclined towards junk food, cold drinks and fried chips etc which increased weight and caused nasal and throat diseases, gastrointestinal tract problems, heart diseases and also increase cause of diabetes mellitus.

Dr Sajjad said that 12 to 14 per cent of the population was suffering from hypertension, cardiac diseases and diabetes mellitus.

He informed that most of the packets containing food and drink items did not mention the date of expiry.

Sweet betelnuts are causing severe health problems particularly among the youngsters, he added.

He urged that the government should only promote good quality, healthy and hygienic food.

The Pakistan Quality Control Authority should play its due role and ensure that expiry date should be mentioned clearly.

Dr Sajjad was of the view that all types of 'Chalia' should be banned immediately especially in the canteens of all the educational institutions.

He advised that one should always take balanced diet which includes vegetables, beans, eggs, meat, fish, fruits, and milk etc that increased the immunity of the human body.—APP