The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is considering stricter measures to regulate the food environment around schools by proposing restrictions on the sale of high-fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) foods on school campuses and within a 50-metre radius.
FSSAI CEO Rajit Punhani said the proposed regulation is aimed at encouraging healthier eating habits among children from an early age. He said the draft regulation has been submitted before the Supreme Court, which will take a decision on the proposal.
Focus on healthier food choices
According to Punhani, the proposed restrictions are part of FSSAI’s broader Eat Right initiatives, which combine regulation, consumer awareness and behavioural nudges to encourage healthier food choices.
The regulator is seeking to discourage children from consuming HFSS foods regularly and promote healthy eating habits from childhood.
Eat Right initiatives
FSSAI has been implementing programmes such as Eat Right School, Eat Right Campus and Eat Right Thali to promote awareness about nutrition and healthier food choices.
Punhani said food safety and informed consumer choices are becoming increasingly important as the country places greater emphasis on preventive healthcare.
Food safety checks ahead of festivals
FSSAI is also strengthening enforcement ahead of the upcoming festival season. Punhani said several raids have already been conducted to identify food safety violations, with further action planned to ensure safer food during the festive period.
Focus on child and maternal nutrition
The issue was discussed at the ‘Illness to Wellness’ Conference on Healthy Nutrition for a Healthy Nation in New Delhi, where experts highlighted maternal and child nutrition, anaemia, malnutrition and food safety.
The discussions stressed the need for coordinated efforts involving schools, parents, healthcare workers, communities, government and the food industry to create healthier and safer food environments for children.
