Stop serving junk food, Sisodia tells all schools

Delhi’s Education Minister Manish Sisodia has advised schools to stop sale of food with high in fat and sugar in their canteens. The Education Department has also asked principals of both government and private schools to involve students in events like, painting, debates and plays that expand their knowledge on healthy eating.

“Spread the word for healthy food options like vegetable sandwiches, fruits, paneer cutlets, khandvi, poha and low fat milk shakes with seasonal fruits, lassi and jaljeera etc,” said the recently circular issued.

The circular also cites World Health Organisation standards on nutrition needs of growing children and the dangerously high levels of fat and sugar in common junk foods, including aerated soft drinks.

The government has been facing questions in court over steps taken to prevent consumption of junk food by schoolkids in their institutions. Education Department sources said due to limited resources it was not possible to conduct surprise checks in all schools.

“We have left it to the school authorities to take action and follow our advice,” said an official. The government circular said:  "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 (HFSS) through morning assembly, teacher interactive period and parent-teacher meetings.”

“The schools may also consider banning the sale of such foods from school canteen. Also ensure that the cafeteria sells fresh and healthy foods which are low in fat,” it added.

On Sisodia’s suggestion, the Education Department has thrown up the idea of dedicating a wall at a prominent place in schools for information on healthy eating.

The Education Department’s letter seems linked to litigation in which the government has been asked to do more that the existing steps taken for checking junk food consumption.