Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently banned the sales and advertisements of junk and unhealthy foods in school canteens within 50 metres around school campuses. The decision has been taken to promote safe and wholesome food for children.
As stated to ANI, FSSAI has said that the objective behind this regulation is to provide a balanced and safe diet for children in schools. Foods that are high in fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) has been prohibited for sale in school canteens along with in hostel kitchens, mess premises or within 50 metres of the school campus.
Food business operators who manufacture HFSS foods have been restricted to market and advertise such foods to children through any form including logos, posters, text book covers etc.
The school authorities will have to dispaly a board prominently at the entrance gate of the school with a ‘do not sell, warning. the sign biard can be in English or any other Indian language. School authorities will also have to obtain a license for selling and catering school meals. The same license will have to be obtained by FBOs who have been contracted by the state governments for mid-day meal scheme.
As reported by TOI, the order to ban junk food has not been implemented yet.
During this time of Covid-19, it is essential that we consume healthy food that boosts our immunity to fight the virus. Have a look at these Vitamin -C enriched foods from Northeast India to help develop your immune system.
(Feature image source: The Jakarta Post)
