Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has committed to donating 1.5 lakh packs of Horlicks to help provide immunity to health care workers and providers as they continue their tireless fight against Corona virus.
The first packs have already reached 39 hospitals across India and will soon reach all major Covid-19 hospitals in 12 key cities.
The brand combines the goodness of milk, wheat and malted barley with 23 vital nutrients such as proteins, Zinc, Vitamin C and Vitamin D with other immunity supporting nutrients like Selenium, Folic acid, Iron, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B6.
Zinc, Vitamin C and Vitamin D are key nutrients known to build immunity against disease.
There is also laboratory evidence that Zinc, in combination with ionophores, has helped in viral load reduction of previous Corona viruses like SARS.
Unfortunately, zinc deficiency in the Indian population varies from 40-60 per cent in different age groups, with inadequate dietary Zinc being the primary cause.
The malt beverack, which is being donated to hospitals, is a rich source of Zinc, Vitamin C and Vitamin D.
Sanjiv Mehta, chairman and MD, HUL, said, “We are experiencing an unprecedented health crisis, and everyone should play a role in helping the nation fight this crisis. It is also our responsibility to stay safe and in good health. In addition to good hygiene practices, we need to have a healthy diet that builds the body’s natural defence mechanism.”
“Today, I am truly delighted that we are able to provide Horlicks to several hospitals for the healthcare workers and providers, to support them in their fight against this disease,” he added.
Dr Shashank R Joshi, consultant, Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, and dean, Indian College of Physicians, said, “Fortifying your immunity system against colds and flu is essential, now more than ever. A balanced diet and attention to macro and micronutrients is the basis of building a vigorous immune system. Your meal needs to have the right amount of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and Zinc.”
“Scientific evidence documented in the past few decades shows that consumption of Zinc plays a significant role against viral infections, including human respiratory infections because of its immuno-nutrient properties. It’s important to have the right amount of Zinc in your body,” he added.
HUL had recently announced a commitment of Rs 100 crore towards helping India fight the Covid-19 pandemic.