Maharashtra Enforces Ban on Unhealthy Foods Near Schools

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken a significant step towards promoting healthier eating habits among students by instituting a ban on the sale of processed foods high in fat, sugar, and salt within a 50-metre radius of school premises. This initiative is targeted at children aged 22 months to those in Class 12, and it aims to combat the rising concerns over childhood obesity and related health issues. FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe emphasized the importance of this regulation, stating that it will be strictly enforced to ensure compliance across the state. The decision is part of a broader effort to enhance food safety and nutritional standards in educational institutions, impacting approximately 20 million students enrolled in around 108,000 schools across Maharashtra.

According to Commissioner Mundhe, all food suppliers, school kitchen operators, and canteens must obtain the necessary licenses under food safety regulations to operate legally. This includes not only the sale of food items but also the advertisement and free distribution of high-fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) products within the designated area. The FDA's directive prohibits any form of promotion or distribution of these unhealthy food items, reinforcing the state's commitment to fostering a healthier environment for students. The ban is expected to apply uniformly to all types of schools, including government, government-aided, and private institutions, ensuring that no school is exempt from these regulations.