Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has mandated licences for all school canteens and prohibited the sale of junk food, sugary snacks, and energy drinks within 50 metres of school premises. The move aims to improve nutrition for over 20 million students across the state.
Key Takeaways
- Canteens must operate through licensed vendors only
- All HFSS (high‑fat, sugar, salt) foods banned within 50 m of schools
- Non‑compliance may lead to affiliation cancellation; bi‑annual inspections
What the New Rule Entails
On July 28, Maharashtra’s FDA issued a compliance order requiring every school to obtain a licence for its canteen operations. Schools wishing to run the canteen themselves must now secure a licence from the FDA.
Which Foods Are Prohibited?
The ban covers processed and unhealthy items such as vada‑pav, ice‑cream, energy drinks and any other high‑fat, sugar, salt (HFSS) products. The restriction applies to both sale and advertising, as well as free distribution, within a 50‑metre radius of school boundaries.
Enforcement and Monitoring
School administrations are tasked with enforcing the guidelines. Failure to comply could result in the revocation of affiliation or other punitive actions. FDA inspectors will visit each school at least twice a year to ensure adherence.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that restricting junk food near schools can reduce childhood obesity rates by up to 15% over five years, fostering better long‑term health outcomes for millions of Indian children.
"Balanced nutrition alongside education is essential for children’s physical and mental development," says Dr. Anita Sharma, a child nutrition expert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does the ban affect vendors outside the school premises?
A: Yes, any vendor operating within 50 metres of a school is prohibited from selling HFSS products.
Q2: What penalties apply for non‑compliance?
A: The FDA may cancel the school’s affiliation, revoke licences, or pursue legal action against violators.
