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Karnataka creates 50-metre No-HFSS zone around schools and colleges
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Tuesday, 04 August, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Nandita Vijayasimha, Bengaluru
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Karnataka government has now prohibited the sale of high fat, sugar and salt (HFSS)food products within school and college premises within a 50-metre radius. The Karnataka Food and Drug Administration ensured that there will be strict enforcement of food safety regulations.
This follows close on the heels of the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which banned the sale, free distribution, and advertising of HFSS junk food inside school premises and within a 50-metre radius of all schools across the state. Announced on July 29, 2026 by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the directive applies to over 1.08 lakh government, aided, and private schools affecting nearly two crore students.
Health and Family Welfare Minister UT Khader Fareed said that the Karnataka FDA during inspections found that the food served to children in some schools has more refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta and processed snack foods. Such foods cause rapid increase in blood sugar levels. It is essential to balance these meals with lean proteins and healthy fats to provide sustained energy and improve and improve concentration throughout the day, hence this advisory has now come forth.
Under the provisions of the Food Safety Standards Act 2006, and the Food Safety and Standards Food and Balanced Diets for Children in School Regulations 2020, directions issued need to be mandatorily complied by all the Food Business Operators (FBOs) schools’ managements and Food Safety Officers in the interest of health and well-being of school children.
The sale of HFSS, advertisements and free distribution are banned. All food establishments located near schools including food stalls, bakeries, canteens need to obtain the required registration and license.
The Food safety officers will carry our regular and surprise inspections on food vendors operating around schools. Appropriate legal action will be initiated in accordance with the Act wherever violations are detected, said Minister Khader.
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