Consider selling healthy food in canteens, DoE tells schools

All heads of schools have been urged to create awareness among students about unhealthy eating habits, and consider banning sale of food items that are high in fat, sugar and salt content from their canteens.

In order to create awareness among students about unhealthy eating habits, the Delhi government has directed schools in the Capital to consider banning sale of food items that are high in fat, sugar and salt content from their canteens.

The Directorate of Education (DoE) on Monday issued a circular in this regard to all private unaided and government schools.

“All the heads of government and private schools are directed to sensitise 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 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.”

The government circular also details the adverse effects of each of the constituents of food high in fat, sugar and salt, as prescribed by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Some of the suggestions by the government for sensitising the students include “maintaining a notice board for creating awareness; organising 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”.

“Spread the word about healthy food options like vegetable sandwiches, fruits, paneer cutlets, khandvi, poha and low-fat milkshakes with seasonal fruits, lassi and jaljeera, etc.,” the DoE circular said.

The communication comes following a Delhi High Court judgment ordering regulation of junk food consumption among school children through restrictions on sale of foods high in fat, salt and sugar — like chips, fried foods and sugar-sweetened beverages — in and around school premises.

The Court had also directed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to implement its guidelines on making wholesome and nutritious food available to school children.