Key Update

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of Maharashtra has banned the sale, free distribution, and advertisement of junk food in schools and within a 50-metre radius of school premises to encourage healthier eating habits among children and create a healthier school food environment.

What the Order Covers

The junk food ban covers all schools across Maharashtra, including government, government-aided, private, residential, CBSE, ICSE, State Board, and other educational institutions. It will affect nearly 1.08 lakh schools and around 2 crore students. Under the order, schools and vendors cannot sell, distribute, or advertise foods high in fat, trans fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS), such as:

• Vada pav
• Samosas
• Deep-fried snacks
• Chips
• Soft drinks and sugary beverages
• Chocolates/
• Ice cream

These items can no longer be sold, distributed, or promoted within school campuses or the surrounding 50-metre zone.

Strengthening School Food Safety

Announcing the order, Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the measure is part of the state’s “Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra” campaign. The Maharashtra FDA said the initiative is aimed at improving children’s access to safe food while promoting healthy eating habits across schools. The order also requires:

• School canteens, hostel kitchens, PM-POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal) kitchens, Anganwadi centres, and all food suppliers to schools to obtain valid FSSAI licences and registrations.
• Schools to display Food Safety Display Boards.
• Appointment of a Food Safety Supervisor.
• Implementation of the Eat Right School initiative.
• Promotion of health and wellness activities.
• Maintenance of safe drinking water, hygienic kitchens, proper food storage, and sanitation practices.

Enforcement and Compliance

School principals and management will be primarily responsible for implementing the regulations. The School Education Department will oversee compliance in government and government-aided schools, while other education boards and local authorities will monitor institutions under their jurisdiction.

The Maharashtra FDA will conduct inspection drives across the state. Schools found violating the regulations may face notices, suspension or cancellation of licences, seizure of food products, and legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Based on FSSAI Regulations

The order implements the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School Regulations, 2020. Beyond restricting unhealthy foods, the initiative seeks to raise awareness among students, parents, and school authorities about healthy eating. Workshops will also be conducted at the district and taluka levels to promote the Eat Right School campaign.

The state government expects the initiative to help reduce the risk of childhood obesity, diabetes, and other lifestyle-related diseases, while encouraging healthier food choices among schoolchildren.

Source: NDTV