The Food safety and standards Authority of India in its press release dated 7th November 2019, has proposed a draft regulation titled as the Food Safety and Standards (Safe Food and healthy diets for School Children) Regulations, 2019. It is a 10 point charter that prohibits sale and even promotion of unhealthy food items in schools and premises.
Key Highlights
- As per the norms, the FSSAI has sought a prohibition on sale of food commonly called as ‘junk food’ to school children.
- The Food Business Operators (FBOs) must obtain a registration or license as applicable and comply with the requirements of sanitary and hygienic practices to the food service establishments as specified under the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
- Encourage School Authority to promote consumption of a safe and balanced diet in the school as per the guidelines issued by the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN)
- Foods which are referred to as foods high in fat, salt and sugar (“HFSS”) cannot be sold in school canteens/ mess premises/ hostel kitchens or within 50 meters of the school campus.
- Nutrionists and dietitians may be engaged by the School authority to assist in the preparation of menu for the children, periodically.
- FBOs manufacturing HFSS food products barred are from advertising such food to children in school premises or within 50 meters of the school campus.
- Regular inspection of premises to ensure that safe, healthy and hygienic food is served to students
FSSAI has invited suggestions and objections from stakeholders within 30 days from the publication of the draft regulations. These regulations, after consideration of stakeholder comments and finalization, would be finalized for implementation.
Click here to read the Notification
