Pune Schools Ban HFSS Food Within 50 Metres

Pune schools have been instructed to tighten food safety norms and ban high fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) foods within 50 metres of school premises.

The directive comes as part of a joint initiative by the municipal education departments and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Maharashtra, to ensure implementation of the Food Safety and Standards (Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School) Regulations, 2020.

Over 1,800 school principals from Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and Sangli attended programmes organised to sensitise them about food safety and nutrition norms for schoolchildren. In Pune, more than 1,000 principals attended the programme organised on August 18 by the Pune Municipal Corporation Education Department in coordination with the FDA.

Officials briefed school authorities about food hygiene, licensing and registration of food suppliers, safe drinking water, maintenance of records, and restrictions on HFSS foods. Every school canteen, mid-day meal provider, hostel kitchen, tuck shop, and other food supplier operating in or supplying food to a school must have a valid FSSAI licence or registration.

Schools have also been asked to comply with prescribed hygiene and sanitation standards. The sale, serving, display, distribution, or promotion of HFSS foods is prohibited within school premises and within 50 metres of the school gate in every direction.

The FDA has directed schools to provide nutritious menus, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and dairy products, besides safe drinking water. Each school must appoint a Health and Wellness Ambassador or Nodal Officer and conduct at least four food safety and nutrition awareness programmes every academic year.

The FDA will inspect every school at least twice in an academic year and collect food samples from canteens, mid-day meal kitchens, and tuck shops at least once a year. Violations may lead to improvement notices, licensing action, seizure, or prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

This move is expected to promote healthy eating habits among schoolchildren and ensure their safety and well-being. The initiative is a step towards creating a healthier environment in schools and reducing the risk of lifestyle diseases.

The FDA's efforts to regulate food safety in schools are crucial, given the increasing concern about the health and nutrition of schoolchildren. By banning HFSS foods and promoting nutritious menus, the FDA aims to encourage healthy eating habits and reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other lifestyle diseases.

In conclusion, the ban on HFSS foods within 50 metres of school premises is a significant step towards promoting healthy eating habits among schoolchildren in Pune. The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of schoolchildren and contribute to creating a healthier environment in schools.