Maharashtra bans junk food in and around schools, makes canteen licences mandatory

Maharashtra's FDA has made licences mandatory for school canteens and banned HFSS food sales in and around schools. The order puts school managements under enforcement pressure as inspectors begin compliance checks.Junk food, sugary snacks and energy drinks banned near Maharashtra schools.In a move that will impact more than two crore students across Maharashtra, the state's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made licences mandatory for school canteens and banned the sale of junk food, sugary products and caffeinated drinks inside schools and within a 50-metre radius of school premises.The FDA said the restrictions are aimed at promoting healthier eating habits among children and ensuring compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Regulations that have been in force since 2021. A compliance order to enforce the rules was issued on July 28."Schools will now be allowed to operate canteens only through licensed vendors. If a school wishes to run the canteen itself, it must obtain a licence from the FDA," FDA Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar Mundhe said.The regulator has prohibited the sale, advertisement and free distribution of HFSS (High Fat, Sugar and Salt) foods within schools and within 50 metres of their boundaries. Processed and unhealthy food items such as vada pav, ice creams, energy drinks and other junk food products will not be permitted. "Sale, advertisement or free distribution of HFSS products will be banned within 50 metres of schools. We are currently focusing on awareness, but we will ensure strict compliance with the regulations," Mundhe said.The order applies to all schools across boards, including government and private institutions, and covers children aged between 22 months and 17 years. School administrations have been tasked with implementing the guidelines, while the FDA has assured support in addressing any challenges. The agency also warned that non-compliance could attract action."School managements will have to enforce these rules. If they fail to do so, we can recommend action, including cancellation of affiliation. If establishments outside school premises violate the rules, the FDA will intervene," Mundhe said.To ensure compliance, FDA inspectors will visit every school at least twice a year.Mundhe said the objective of the initiative is to improve the physical and mental development of children by encouraging balanced nutrition."Children need a healthy and balanced diet during their growing years. Proper nutrition, vitamins and essential nutrients are critical for their overall development," he said.The FDA chief also urged school principals to take the issue seriously and appealed to parents to discourage children from consuming unhealthy food products.- EndsPublished By: Nitish SinghPublished On: Jul 30, 2026 04:18 IST