New Delhi, 29 Dec. 2024: As delivery platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Zepto race to serve meals within 10 minutes through initiatives such as Swiggy Bolt, Zomato Bistro, and Zepto Cafe, concerns about health consequences are growing. Critics argue that while these services may champion convenience, they compromise nutritional value by relying on ultra-processed foods.
Dr. Manan Vora, an orthopedic surgeon and co-founder of NutriByte Wellness, joined the debate, expressing sharp criticism in a LinkedIn post. “For food to be delivered in 10 minutes, it needs to be cooked in three minutes or less,” he wrote. “The only way this works is with ultra-processed, ready-to-eat meals – pre-cooked, frozen, microwaved, and delivered.”
Dr. Vora pointed to research linking ultra-processed foods to a range of health issues. He cited studies that suggest these foods can increase cancer risk by 12% and cardiovascular disease by 10%. He also noted the links to obesity, which affects 27.8% of Indian adults, as well as sugar spikes leading to diabetes and trans fats contributing to heart disease.
In his post, Dr. Vora urged consumers to reconsider the allure of lightning-fast meals. “If you don’t have home-cooked food and need to order in, choose options that might take a little longer but prioritize freshness. Don’t compromise your health for speed,” he advised.
His message was direct to industry players: “Dear Zomato, Swiggy, and Zepto: We don’t want ultra-processed garbage delivered in 10 minutes!”
The surge in quick-commerce dining services underscores the tension between modern convenience and long-term public health, with experts like Dr. Vora cautioning against the hidden costs of instant gratification.