Kerala Cracks Down on Unhealthy School Snacks

The Kerala government is reinforcing its legal framework to combat unhealthy eating habits and reduce the intake of junk food among children. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan announced that the state will collaborate with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to define High Fat, Sugar, and Salt (HFSS) foods and establish clear regulations for their sale. Currently, the lack of precise scientific definitions for junk food and HFSS criteria hampers efforts to restrict their availability, particularly around schools.

The FSSAI had published a draft regulation in August 2026, proposing specific thresholds for fat, sugar, and salt content in solid and liquid foods to classify them as high. Once finalized, these regulations will empower states to ban or restrict sales of such items near educational facilities. Kerala plans to urge the FSSAI for prompt finalization of these criteria.

In parallel, Kerala is implementing the 'Eat Right School' program, which ensures safe, balanced, and nutritious food in schools and Model Residential Schools. This initiative aims to cultivate healthy eating habits from a young age. Furthermore, the 'Eat Right Campus' program is ensuring food safety and nutrition in institutional canteens, with 456 institutions already certified.