Chips, soft drinks may face ban within 50 metres of schools

CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Chips and soft drinks may be banned within a 50-metre radius of schools

In view of growing unhealthy eating habits among children, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is preparing stricter measures on the sale of foods high in fat, salt and sugar around schools. Under the proposed rules, there is a provision to prohibit the sale and promotion of such food items inside school premises and within a 50-metre radius of their entrance gates.

The proposed rules may cover chips, sweetened soft drinks, high-sugar beverages, salty snacks and other food items high in fat, salt or sugar. The objective is to keep children away from less nutritious food items and promote healthy eating habits.

In August, FSSAI released a draft amendment to rules related to safe food and balanced diets for children in schools. The draft includes a definition of food items containing high quantities of added fat, added sugar or salt. Suggestions have been sought from the public and stakeholders on the draft.

According to the report, the proposed arrangement will not remain limited to schools but may also affect nearby shops, eateries and food vendors. However, suggestions and objections received on the proposal will be considered before the final rules are implemented.

Maharashtra has already taken action in this direction at the state level, where a ban has been implemented on the sale of food items high in fat, salt and sugar inside schools and within a 50-metre radius.

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