India Bans Sales and Marketing of Processed Foods in and Around Schools

India has barred sales and marketing of foods high in saturated fat or trans fats or added sugar or sodium (HFSS) in and around school grounds.  The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said the HFSS foods mentioned in the charter will cover all foods, both prepared meals and processed food products, that are being sold within Indian school walls.  

The school authorities have also been mandated to put up a board with the warning not to sell (including free sale or market or advertise) food products high in saturated fat or trans-fat or added sugar or sodium within school premises or campus.  The warning will be written in English or one Indian language as applicable, and ensure it is ‘displayed prominently’ at the school gate. With the warning, manufacturers of HFSS foods will no longer be allowed to advertise or market such foods to children in school premises, including via logos, brand names, posters, textbook covers etc. or in an area within fifty meters radius from the school gate.