Top News

Maharashtra has banned the sale, marketing and free distribution of chocolates, ice creams, vada pav, chips, soft drinks and other HFSS foods in schools and within a 50-metre radius. Schools must offer healthier alternatives, conduct regular food safety checks and comply with stricter FSSAI norms.

Mumbai, July 29, 2026: In a major push to promote healthy eating among children, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has prohibited the sale, marketing and free distribution of chocolates, ice creams, vada pav, chips, soft drinks, fried snacks and other foods high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) within all school campuses and a 50-metre radius of school gates across the state.

The order, issued by Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, applies to all government, aided, private and residential schools affiliated with the State Board, CBSE, ICSE and other education boards.

Issued under the Food Safety and Standards (Safe Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School) Regulations, 2020, the directive mandates that all school canteens, tuck shops, hostel kitchens, PM POSHAN kitchens and food suppliers possess a valid FSSAI licence or registration.

Clarifying that the regulations are not new, Mundhe said, "The regulations have been in force since 2020 and are already being implemented. We have now directed officials to ensure stricter enforcement, and action will be taken against violators."