Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited and APICON 2014, the 69th Annual Conference of Association of Physicians of India, broke the Guinness World Records title to create the largest vegetable mosaic measuring 5165 sq. ft. made in the shape of a heart. The key objective was to drive an awareness on the importance of vegetable consumption to prevent coronary artery disease (CAD). Over 1000 participants  which included doctors and Ranbaxy employees were involved in the largest vegetable mosaic creation at the APICON 2014, beating the existing record set by Japan. The event was held in Ludhiana.

The seven layered vegetable based heart sign promoting food for healthy heart was made using approximately 19,825 kgs of vegetables comprising cabbage, brinjal, cauliflower, zucchini, carrot, cucumber, garlic, red capsicum and red chillies. Ranbaxy achieved this Guinness World Records title by clocking it in around 10 hours.

The previous record for the largest vegetable mosaic measured 402 m² (4,327 ft² 10 in²) and was achieved in Japan. By breaking this record, APICON and Ranbaxy have now brought this title to India.

Adhering to Guinness World Records guidelines the mosaic was made entirely of vegetables with their stalks and roots removed. Further, no dyes were used. After the event these vegetables were distributed to charity homes and Gurudwaras, thereby contributing to a noble purpose.

On the milestone achievement, Jack Brockbank, Guinness World Records Adjudicator said, “It’s always exciting to witness a successful attempt to break a Guinness World Record title, especially when it’s for a good cause. We are pleased to present APICON Ludhiana 2014 and Ranbaxy with the new title for the Largest vegetable mosaic.”

On the occasion, Rajeev Sibal, vice president & head-India Region, Ranbaxy said, “A healthy diet is a major factor in reducing the risk of heart disease. Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet. At Ranbaxy, we are committed to create  awareness on a healthy lifestyle. The underlying thought behind healthy heart mosaic is in tandem with that commitment.”

Receiving the award on behalf of APICON Ludhiana 2014, Prof. Dr Gurpreet S Wander, secretary, Organising Committee, APICON 2014 said, “The role of diet in increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases like heart attack, diabetes and hypertension is well recognised. In spite of this the young population of our country is attracted more towards fast foods which are high in fat and salt content. The Indian diet in vegetables protects from these diseases.”

The vegetable heart mosaic will create awareness among public emphasising the health benefits of eating vegetables in plenty. These are low in calories, very low in fat content and if prepared with less oils are the best form of diet. Various studies indicate that individuals consuming vegetables in plenty have less heart attacks. Prevalence of CAD is one of the highest among South Asians where its incidence in the urban population is 10 - 11 per cent and in rural population is four to five per cent,” said Prof. Wander.