Karnataka Bans Junk Food Sales Near Schools to Boost Child Nutrition

Karnataka has intensified its efforts to promote healthier eating habits among children by banning the sale of High Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS) food products on school and pre-university college campuses and within a 50-metre radius of educational institutions. The move, aimed at tackling rising concerns over poor nutrition and lifestyle diseases among children, aligns with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines and seeks to create safer and healthier food environments for students.

Issued through an advisory effective July 24, the directive is based on the Food Safety and Standards (Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School) Regulations, 2020, framed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It prohibits the sale, promotion and advertisement of HFSS foods while encouraging educational institutions to offer balanced, nutritious meals and raise awareness about healthy eating.

The decision follows a statewide enforcement drive in July 2026, during which officials inspected 134 schools, colleges and nearby food establishments. Inspections covered food quality, hygiene, sanitation, labelling, expired products and licensing compliance. Authorities found that some institutions served meals rich in refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta and processed snacks, while several vendors around campuses continued selling HFSS products.

Officials collected 53 suspicious food samples, which have been sent to the State Food Laboratory in Bengaluru for analysis. The department said legal action will be initiated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and Rules, 2011 if violations are confirmed.

HFSS foods including packaged chips, sugary drinks, chocolates, instant noodles, cakes and fried snacks are high in saturated fat, sugar and salt but low in essential nutrients. Health experts warn that excessive consumption increases the risk of childhood obesity, Type-2 diabetes, hypertension and other non-communicable diseases.

The advisory also encourages schools to promote healthier alternatives such as millets, pulses, fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, idli, upma and poha. Experts believe the initiative could improve students' nutrition, concentration and long-term health while serving as a model for other states seeking to strengthen child nutrition and preventive public health.