Pakistan's dual crisis: Rising malnutrition and obesity grip rural communities
Pakistan's nutrition crisis has deepened in recent years, with rising malnutrition and obesity affecting millions. A sharp increase in the consumption of sweets and snack foods has worsened the problem, particularly in rural areas. Despite producing enough calories, the country's food system lacks the diversity needed for a balanced diet.
Over the past five years, rural communities have seen a steeper decline in nutrition compared to cities. Stunting rates in children have climbed by 5–7% in rural areas, while urban increases remain at 2–3%, according to UNICEF and Pakistan's Demographic and Health Survey. At the same time, obesity is rising, creating a dual health burden.
The shift toward sugar- and fat-rich diets stems from multiple factors. Urbanisation has spread processed food habits into rural regions. Multinational companies like Coca-Cola and Nestlé have aggressively marketed their products, while subsidies on wheat and sugar have made unhealthy foods more affordable. Improved highways have expanded supply chains for ultra-processed snacks, reaching even remote rural marketplaces.
Media influence and remittances have also changed eating habits, especially among younger people. Surprisingly, rural residents now consume more free sugars and fats than urban populations, drawn to cheap, energy-dense fast food. The 2024 Pakistan Nutrition Survey links these trends to the worsening health of women and children, who suffer the most from poor diets and lack of health insurance.
The combination of malnutrition and obesity is putting immense pressure on Pakistan's health system. Millions remain at risk of stunting, diet-related diseases, and long-term health problems. Without changes to food policies and supply chains, the crisis is likely to persist.
