Mangaluru (Karnataka), Jul 31 (PTI) The Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has prohibited the sale of HFSS food products on school and college campuses and within a 50-metre radius of educational institutions as part of measures to promote healthy eating habits among students.
The department said that the decision has been taken in line with the guidelines of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure that students have access to safe, nutritious, and quality food.
According to a statement by the department, as part of a statewide enforcement drive in July 2026, food safety officials inspected 134 schools and colleges and food establishments operating within and around their premises.
During inspections, it was found that the food served to children in some schools has more refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, and processed snack foods.
Officials pointed out that such foods can cause rapid increases in blood sugar levels. It is essential to balance these meals with lean proteins and healthy fats to provide sustained energy and improve concentration throughout the day.
The inspections covered food quality, hygiene and sanitation standards, labelling, sale of expired food products, and compliance with licensing and registration requirements under the Food Safety and Standards Act, it said.
“It was observed that certain food business establishments located within and around school and college premises were selling High Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS) food products,” it said.
During the drive, officials collected 53 food samples found to be suspicious for laboratory analysis. The samples have been sent to the State Food Laboratory in Bengaluru, and legal action will be initiated against the concerned food business operators if violations are confirmed, in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the Rules, 2011, it stated.
The department said an advisory issued with effect from July 24 directs educational institutions and food vendors to discourage the sale of unhealthy food items within campuses and up to 50 metres from their boundaries while encouraging healthier food choices.
Food Safety Officers have also been instructed to create awareness among school and college managements, food business operators, and the public to ensure effective implementation of the directive, the release added. PTI COR AMP KH
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