UNICEF India Rolls Out #MeriThaliSehatwali Campaign To Champion Healthy Eating And Smart Food Choices

A Digital Push for Healthier Homes

In an era where social media has become an integral part of our lives, UNICEF’s decision to take the campaign digital is both strategic and timely. The campaign is being executed through a variety of engaging content formats — from static posts and short videos to catchy jingles — that are crafted to capture attention and drive behavioural change.

The core aim of #MeriThaliSehatwali is to build awareness about the importance of balanced, nutritious meals tailored to each life stage. It also encourages Indian families to reimagine their food plates using easily accessible, local ingredients that are rich in essential nutrients.

Nutrition for Every Stage of Life

Highlighting the significance of smart food choices, Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India Representative, noted, “Our food choices are fundamental to our growth and well-being throughout life. A healthy diet helps children and youth thrive. However, not everyone knows what a nutritious diet really looks like, especially for different age groups. This campaign seeks to fill that awareness gap.”

Also Read: Gaza’s Grim Toll: 57 Children Dead from Malnutrition Amid Aid Blockade, Says WHO

Different life stages bring different nutritional needs. Whether it’s a growing toddler, an adolescent girl, a pregnant woman, or an elderly adult, each member of the family requires specific nutrients to support optimal health. The campaign targets this knowledge gap with practical, science-backed advice that can be implemented in everyday life.

Six Key Healthy Eating Tips

At the heart of the #MeriThaliSehatwali campaign are six simple yet powerful principles:

• Breastfeeding and Early Feeding: Encourage optimum breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices for infants and toddlers under two years.
• Nutrient-Rich Meals for Women: Promote healthy breakfasts and snacks for adolescent girls, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.
• No More ‘Last and Least’: Break the age-old norm where women eat last — adolescent girls and women must get equal portions and priority.

• Colourful, Local Plates: Incorporate a variety of local, seasonal, and colourful foods on the plate, at any age and every day.
• Ditch the Junk: Minimise the consumption of ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt, and fat.
• Stay Active: Physical movement and play should be part of everyone’s daily routine, regardless of age.

Addressing a National Concern

India, like many countries, is witnessing a surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, many of which stem from poor dietary habits. According to data, around 56% of these NCDs are linked directly to unhealthy diets. What’s more, the nation is also grappling with the growing challenge of childhood obesity, even as undernutrition still affects many rural and low-income families.

By promoting diverse and balanced diets, #MeriThaliSehatwali aims to tackle both ends of the nutritional spectrum. This dual approach ensures that both underweight and overweight-related issues are addressed through the same message: eat healthy, eat smart.

A Step Towards a Nourished India

Through this campaign, UNICEF India reiterates its commitment to creating healthier food environments. The effort is not just about individual transformation, but about building healthier communities and a well-nourished nation.

As the campaign gains momentum online, it encourages families to rethink what’s on their plate — and more importantly, why it matters. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your toddler or your grandmother, #MeriThaliSehatwali reminds us that every bite counts.