Maharashtra Bans Junk Food in Schools, Orders Nutritious Menus
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a directive banning the sale of unhealthy foods, including chocolates, chips, and cold drinks, in all schools across the state. Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe ordered schools to eliminate foods high in saturated fat, trans-fat, added sugar, or sodium (HFSS) from campuses, citing widespread non-compliance with a 2020 central regulation.
The order applies to government, aided, and private schools, and also prohibits any advertisement of such products within 50 metres of school premises. Schools are required to revise their menus to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and dairy items, promoting healthier eating habits among students.
The directive aims to enforce nutrition standards and curb the availability of junk food, which has been linked to rising obesity and health issues among children. The FDA has warned of strict action against schools that fail to comply with the order.
