Maharashtra FDA bans junk food near schools statewide

In a sweeping move to promote child nutrition, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has banned the sale, free distribution, and advertising of junk food in and around all schools across the state. The directive, announced on Wednesday, July我们发现29, 2026, prohibits foods high in fat, trans fat, sugar, and salt within school premises and within a 50-meter radius.

The ban targets items such as vada pav, samosas, deep-fried snacks, chips, cold drinks, sugary beverages, chocolates, and ice cream. Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe stated the order applies to all schools, irrespective of education board, covering government, aided, and private institutions. He emphasized that school principals and managements are responsible for enforcement and will face strict action for non-compliance.

The policy is part of the state's "Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra" campaign and is expected to impact over two crore students. The regulations aim to cover children from 22 months to 17 years old. Mundhe stressed the importance of proper nutrition for development, saying children need a healthy and balanced diet during their growing years.

In a related mandate, the FDA has made food safety...