The Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has issued an advisory discouraging the sale of food products high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) within a 50 metre radius of schools and colleges. The move followed inspections conducted at food business establishments near 134 educational institutions across the state during July, where officials found several outlets selling unhealthy food items close to campuses.
New Guidelines Issued After Inspection
According to the FSDA, the inspections assessed food quality, hygiene, sanitation, labelling, expired products and compliance with food safety regulations. Based on the findings, the advisory, issued on 24th July 2026, called for promoting healthier food choices around educational institutions while directing food business operators to comply with all provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
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Strict Enforcement and Regular Monitoring Planned
The department has instructed district designated officers and food safety officers to implement the advisory across Karnataka and create awareness among school and college authorities, food vendors and the public. It also directed that all food establishments operating near educational institutions must possess valid licences and registrations. Regular inspections will be carried out to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
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Nutritious School Meals Recommended
The advisory also outlined measures to improve the nutritional quality of school meals. It recommended cereal protein combinations rich in micronutrients, including whole grains, pulses, millets, milk, eggs and fresh seasonal produce. The use of fortified wheat flour, rice, edible oil, milk and double-fortified salt has also been advised in line with the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations, 2018. Officials warned that violations of food safety laws could attract improvement notices, suspension or cancellation of licences, seizure of food products and judicial proceedings wherever required.
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