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Journalism of Courage
Shark Tank India judge Radhika Gupta addressed India’s rising obesity crisis and recommended that restaurants introduce “half-plate portions across all menu items” to tackle overeating and food waste. The Edelweiss Mutual Funds CEO wrote on X, “I’m glad we’re talking openly about obesity—it’s an important issue.”
“Many of us eat small portions but end up finishing everything on the plate because, culturally, we don’t like wasting food. When dining alone, sharing isn’t always possible. Restaurants could price half-plates just above 50 per cent of the full portion if that helps with margins. This would give diners a way to eat less without wasting food or money,” she proposed.
Her suggestion followed the launch of the Let’s Fix Our Food (LFOF) campaign backed by the Indian Council of Medical Research—National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) to introduce reforms in India’s food landscape. Their statistics show that 24 percent of adolescents are underweight, while over 17 million children and teens are affected by obesity.
In reply to her, a user wrote, “I have seen two to three restaurants in Ahmedabad doing the same. Also, on my recent visit to Bangkok, I observed that some local Indian restaurants have done the same. Half plates at half prices, too.”
Another suggested, “Maybe a cutting plate?” A third user wrote, “It’s practical advice—an admirable one. We need it. Apart from this, restaurants can promote the idea of a food bank—to be maintained by guest contributions. It shall improve the footfall, too, leading to better commercials.”
A user likened it to tea and coffee portions: “Imagine menus where the default is reasonably portioned, and ‘upsizing’ is opt-in. We’ve done it with coffee—why not with meals? Small changes, big health dividends!”
Yet another commented that it was always the norm. “Traditionally, in north India, half plate was a norm, as restaurants or dhabas were run for providing routine diet to people. Whereas these days eating out is more for amusement, or out of boredom, than for filling up the tummy.”
But there were differing opinions as well, with one user stressing how the model may not work in India. “Most restaurants on Swiggy and Zomato are already giving 1/4 or 1/6 the amount of dine-in orders when you order from these sites. Even if you pay for a full plate, they will give an amount hardly good for one person, so Radhika ji, your suggestion is not going to help at least in India.” Another wrote: “Already dosa is like a coin now. Please don’t tell restaurants to reduce portions.”
Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology and weight loss expert at Zandra Healthcare and co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative, stressed that tackling obesity requires a combination of behaviour therapy and lifestyle changes. “There is a need for balanced, mindful eating,” said Dr Kovil.
To tackle obesity, these can help
Focus on whole foods: Prioritise fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Mindful eating: Pay attention to hunger cues, eat slowly, and avoid distractions.
Balanced macronutrients: Include fibre-rich carbs, protein for satiety, and healthy fats.
Regular meals: Avoid skipping meals to prevent overeating later.
Physical activity: Combine with nutrition for effective weight management.
Behavioural support: Address emotional eating triggers and build healthy habits.
“Also, indulging in group activities, which include exercises, helps in the long run,” said Dr Kovil.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
