The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has imposed a statewide ban on the sale, distribution and advertisement of junk food within school premises and a 50-metre radius of schools. The order covers popular snacks such as vada pav, samosas, chocolates, cold drinks, ice creams and other high-fat, high-sugar food items.
The move is aimed at encouraging healthier eating habits among students and tackling the growing problem of childhood obesity.
What Has Been Banned?
Under the new order, vendors will not be allowed to sell or advertise junk food inside schools or within 50 metres of school campuses.
The ban includes commonly consumed items such as:
- Vada pav
- Samosas
- Chocolates
- Cold drinks
- Ice creams
- Other unhealthy packaged and fried food items
The restriction applies across Maharashtra and is intended to reduce students’ easy access to unhealthy snacks during school hours.
Schools Also Face Responsibility
The FDA has made it clear that enforcement is not limited to food vendors.
School principals and managements will also be held accountable for ensuring compliance with the new rules. If junk food continues to be sold within the prohibited zone or inside school premises, action may be taken against the school administration for failing to enforce the regulations.
Why The Government Took This Step
The decision comes amid growing concerns over childhood obesity, poor nutrition and lifestyle-related health problems among schoolchildren.
Health authorities believe that limiting the availability of deep-fried, sugary and processed foods near schools will encourage students to make healthier food choices and reduce regular consumption of junk food.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve food safety and promote better nutrition among children.
What Can Be Sold Instead?
While the order focuses on restricting unhealthy food, authorities are encouraging the availability of healthier alternatives near schools.
These may include fresh fruits, milk, buttermilk, sprouts, salads, nuts and other nutritious food options that support balanced diets for growing children.
The government hopes the shift will gradually improve students’ eating habits without affecting access to safe and hygienic food.
Implementation Across Maharashtra
Food Safety Officers and local authorities will monitor compliance with the new regulations.
The FDA is expected to conduct inspections around schools and take action against vendors or institutions found violating the order. The initiative forms part of Maharashtra’s wider campaign to strengthen food safety standards and create healthier school environments.
Summary
Maharashtra has banned the sale, distribution and advertisement of junk food, including vada pav, samosas, chocolates, cold drinks and ice creams, within 50 metres of schools. School principals and management can also face action if the rules are violated, as the state seeks to promote healthier eating habits and reduce childhood obesity.
