Maharashtra Bans Junk Food Near Schools
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has prohibited the sale, free distribution and advertising of junk food inside schools and within 50 metres of their premises. The statewide directive covers vada pav, samosas, chips, sugary drinks, chocolates, ice cream and other foods high in fat, sugar or salt.
Maharashtra Bans Junk Food Near Schools
The restrictions apply to government, aided, private and residential schools, irrespective of whether they are affiliated with the State Board, CBSE, ICSE or another education board.
Around 1.08 lakh schools and nearly two crore students are expected to be covered by the measure.
Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said principals and school managements would be responsible for ensuring that prohibited products are not sold, distributed or advertised within the designated area.
Principals Face Action for Violations
FDA inspection teams will begin checking schools across Maharashtra to monitor compliance. Officials are expected to visit educational institutions at least twice annually.
Schools violating the directive could receive notices and face legal action. Authorities may also seize prohibited food products or suspend and cancel food licences in serious cases.
The School Education Department will monitor government and aided schools, while local authorities and respective education boards will oversee other institutions.
School Canteen Licences Made Mandatory
School and hostel canteens, mid-day meal kitchens, Anganwadi centres and food suppliers serving educational institutions must obtain valid food safety licences or registrations.
Schools must appoint food safety supervisors, display food safety information and ensure clean kitchens, safe drinking water, hygienic storage and proper handling of food.
The restrictions form part of the “Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra” campaign and aim to reduce childhood obesity, diabetes and other lifestyle-related health risks while encouraging healthier food habits among students.
