Maharashtra bans junk food sale near schools; targets chips, samosas and sugary drinks
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale, free distribution and advertising of junk food in and around schools across the state in a move aimed at promoting healthier eating habits among children.
Under the new order, foods high in fat, trans-fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) cannot be sold, promoted or distributed within school premises or within a 50-metre radius of any school.
The rule applies to all educational institutions, including government, aided, private and residential schools, as well as those affiliated with CBSE, ICSE, State Board and other boards.
The directive is expected to impact nearly 1.08 lakh schools and around two crore students across Maharashtra.
Vada pav, chips, cold drinks among banned items
The restrictions cover popular snacks and beverages commonly sold around schools, including:
- Vada pav
- Samosas and deep-fried snacks
- Chips
- Cold drinks and sugary beverages
- Chocolates
- Ice creams
Announcing the order, Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the initiative was part of the state's "Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra" campaign, with the focus on ensuring access to safe and nutritious food for children.
"Our goal is to ensure safe food reaches every child in Maharashtra. This will foster a culture of healthy eating and help build a healthy society," Mundhe said.
New rules for school canteens and food suppliers
The order also mandates that school canteens, hostel kitchens, Mid-Day Meal (PM-POSHAN) kitchens, Anganwadi centres and all food suppliers linked to schools must have valid FSSAI license or registrations.
Schools will now be required to:
- Install Food Safety Display Boards
- Appoint food safety supervisors
- Implement the "Eat Right School" campaign
- Conduct health and wellness activities
- Ensure safe drinking water, hygiene and proper food storage
- Schools Face Action For Violations
- Mundhe said school principals and managements would be responsible for ensuring compliance.
Government and aided schools will be monitored by the School Education Department, while other institutions will be supervised by their respective boards and local authorities.
The FDA will soon launch inspection drives across Maharashtra. Schools violating the rules may face notices, licence suspension or cancellation, seizure of food items and legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Focus on preventing childhood lifestyle diseases
Officials said the move is not only aimed at restricting unhealthy food but also at creating awareness among students and parents about balanced diets.
District and taluka-level workshops will be conducted with school authorities to promote healthier eating practices under the "Eat Right School" campaign.
The order implements the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's (FSSAI) Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School Regulations, 2020, with the government hoping it will help reduce risks of obesity, diabetes and other lifestyle-related illnesses among children.
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