Karnataka to ban junk food sales near schools to promote healthy eating

Karnataka plans to ban junk food sales near schools, including burgers and pizzas, to promote healthy eating among children, while upgrading food testing labs and strengthening safety regulations.Karnataka to restrict junk food sales near schools, tighten food safety norms (representative image)The Karnataka government is planning to ban the sale of junk food in and around schools to encourage children to adopt healthier eating habits, Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader said in Mangaluru on Saturday.The Minister said the government was working on prohibiting the sale of items such as burgers, pizzas, and other junk food products to schoolchildren. He added that major changes were being introduced in food safety regulations to ensure better standards.Speaking to reporters, Khader said several health issues among children were linked to the consumption of unhealthy food. He stressed that children need nutritious meals that support their growth and overall development.As per the reports, the Minister also said the government would strengthen food safety infrastructure by upgrading existing food testing laboratories. In addition, new laboratories will be established under the public-private partnership (PPP) model to improve testing and monitoring facilities across the state. The proposed move is part of the state government’s broader efforts to improve food safety standards and promote healthier lifestyles among children. The implementation of the ban and its enforcement measures will be closely watched once the policy framework is finalised.- EndsPublished By: Karan YadavPublished On: Jul 19, 2026 12:06 IST