Karnataka bans sale, promotion of junk food within 50 metres of schools, colleges

The Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has prohibited the sale, promotion and advertisement of high-fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) foods within school and college campuses and a 50-metre radius around them. The order has been issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, to encourage healthier eating habits among students.

According to the department, the decision follows inspections that found refined carbohydrates and processed snacks being served to children in educational institutions. Officials said the move is aimed at reducing the growing health risks associated with unhealthy eating habits among school and college students.

The department has directed schools and colleges to ensure that HFSS food items are not included in canteens or meal menus. Educational institutions have also been asked to display warning signboards about junk food, while food vendors operating near campuses must possess valid licences.

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Food safety officers will conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with the new norms. Authorities said violations could attract penalties, including seizure of food products, suspension of licences and judicial action.

Karnataka Schools: Healthy meals made mandatory

The general guidelines for meals to be excluded and included are shown in the table below.

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Safe drinking water for students

Schools have been instructed to provide safe drinking water free of cost to all students and ensure structured meal times to promote healthy eating habits. The guidelines recommend providing a variety of seasonal and locally available foods, alongside grains and protein-rich foods, to ensure balanced nutrition.

The advisory further states that cooking oil and ghee should be used in moderation, while the use of reheated fats and oils should be avoided. Schools have also been advised to use fortified wheat flour, rice, milk, edible oil and double-fortified salt while preparing meals in accordance with food fortification standards.

Foods to include and avoid

According to the guidelines, school menus should primarily include whole wheat, rice, millets, pulses, legumes, milk and milk products, eggs, fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and freshly prepared foods such as soups, porridge, idli, upma, poha, dhokla and cheela.

The department has directed schools, hostels and educational institutions not to make available food products high in saturated fat, trans fat, added sugar or sodium, as part of efforts to improve children's nutrition and reduce lifestyle-related health risks.