Ban Sale of Junk Foods in Schools and Promote Healthy Eating: Delhi Government

In an effort to curb overeating and splurging of junk foods among school children, the Education Department of Delhi has issued a circular to all government and private schools to ban the sale of fat, sugar and salt rich foods in and around school premises. “All the heads of government and private schools are directed to sensitize the students and parents about ill-effects of food high in fat, sugar and salt through morning assembly, teacher interactive period and parent- teacher meetings,” the DoE said in the circular.

The department also stated about the World Health Organization standards for nutrition needs of growing children and the high levels of fat and sugar in common junk foods and sugary drinks.

It also asked teachers to sensitize students through activities such as “maintaining a notice board for creating awareness; organizing drawing, painting, slogan writing activities and debates in a class-wise manner with special emphasis on lower classes; and dedicating morning assembly once in a month for this purpose.”

Delhi’s Education Minister Manish Sisodia also advised schools to stop selling junk foods in school canteens and around the campus.

“The schools may also consider banning the sale of such foods from the school canteen. Also, ensure that the cafeteria sells fresh and healthy foods that are low in fat. Spread the word about healthy food options like vegetable sandwiches, fruits, paneer cutlets, khandvi, poha and low-fat milkshakes with seasonal fruits, lassi and Jal jeera, etc.,” the DoE circular said.

Source-Medindia