Maharashtra Bans Junk Food and Sugary Drinks Around 50m of Every School

Maharashtra bans junk food in and around schools to promote healthy eating among students.

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale, free distribution and advertising of junk food inside schools and within 50 metres of all schools across Maharashtra. The rule applies to government, private, aided, residential, CBSE, ICSE, State Board and all other schools. Around 1.08 lakh schools and nearly 2 crore students will be covered under this order.

The main aim is to encourage healthy eating among children and reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes and other lifestyle diseases. The government wants children to eat healthier food and stay fit.

The ban applies to HFSS (High in Fat, Sugar or Salt) foods. These include vada pav, samosas, deep-fried snacks, chips, cold drinks, sugary drinks, chocolates and ice cream. These items cannot be sold, distributed for free or advertised within 50 metres of a school.

FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said children need healthy food for proper physical and mental development. He said school principals and management are responsible for making sure the rules are followed. Parents will also be encouraged to promote healthy eating habits at home.

The FDA will inspect every school at least twice a year. It will also organise workshops at the district and taluka levels to help schools understand and follow the new rules.

Every school canteen must have a valid FSSAI food safety licence. The rules also apply to school hostel canteens, PM-POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal) kitchens, Anganwadi centres and food suppliers providing meals to schools.

Schools must display a Food Safety Board, appoint a Food Safety Supervisor, follow the Eat Right School campaign, promote healthy eating and wellness activities, provide safe drinking water, maintain clean kitchens and store food safely.

The School Education Department will monitor government and government-aided schools, while other education boards and local authorities will monitor the remaining schools. The FDA will also carry out inspections across the state.

Schools that do not follow the rules may receive warning notices, face suspension or cancellation of licences, have food items seized and face legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The order has been issued according to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines under the Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School Regulations, 2020. The government hopes the new rules will help children develop healthier eating habits and improve their overall health.