On August 14, 2025, a study from the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati, shared by India’s Ministry of Science and Technology, showed that traditional fermented foods like yogurt, idli, miso, kimchi, and fermented fish are great for health. These foods have bioactive peptides (BAPs)—tiny protein pieces with 2–20 amino acids—that help control blood pressure, blood sugar, immunity, and inflammation. An X post from @IndiaDST said, “Fermented foods like idli can improve health, but effects vary across India!”
Yogurt and idli helping your health? That’s cool!
How They Work
The study, published in Food Chemistry and led by Professor Ashis K. Mukherjee with Dr. Maloyjo Joyraj Bhattacharjee, Dr. Asis Bala, and Dr. Mojibr Khan, found that these peptides form during fermentation and fight germs, lower blood pressure, act as antioxidants, and boost immunity. They affect heart health, immune responses, and metabolism. But their benefits depend on a person’s genes, gut bacteria, diet, and health. For example, some gene types (like ACE or IL-6) change how these peptides work in different people.
Health benefits depend on your genes? That’s so interesting!
Why India Needs Personalized Nutrition
The study says India’s diverse population needs personalized nutrition because people respond differently to fermented foods. Things like genetic differences, gut bacteria, and eating habits make a big difference. The researchers want to use advanced science (called omics) to study this and improve health plans for Indians. They also suggest adding fermented foods to public health programs to make people healthier, especially in rural areas where traditional foods are common.
Personalized food plans for India? That’s a smart idea!
What’s Next
The study calls for more research to solve problems like inconsistent fermentation methods and keeping peptides stable. By using high-tech tools and supporting rural food systems, India could lead the world in personalized nutrition. This could help tackle health issues like diabetes and heart disease, which affect millions. Like Coolie’s big release or India’s tech push, this is about making India stronger. An X post from @PIB_India said, “IASST study: Fermented foods key to India’s health revolution!”
India leading in food science? That’s something to cheer for!