A large population of Pakistanis consume a dangerously cheap and unhealthy quality of cooking oil through fast food and restaurant-cooked meals. These oils cause severe health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, digestive issues, and even cancer.
According to health experts, 16.5% of all deaths in Pakistan are caused by coronary heart disease, a condition that blocks the heart’s blood supply due to buildup of fatty substances in the coronary arteries. Greasy foods cooked in low-quality oil can further exacerbate existing issues related to the gut and stomach.
Despite these alarming statistics, an upward trend of fast-food consumption and outdoor dining can be noticed in every other urban city. To curtail these habits, the government must launch awareness campaigns that highlight the severity of such health problems along with initiatives to cease sale of such unhealthy oils.
Bilal Sikander
Karachi
