India restricts junk food sales near schools
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India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority is planning to limit the sale of foods high in fat, salt, and sugar within 50 meters of schools across the country.
The new rules would affect a wide range of businesses, including small shops, restaurants, and multinational companies like PepsiCo and Nestle. Authorities hope the regulations will curb rising childhood obesity and encourage healthier eating habits for India’s 1.5 million students.
The proposed law builds on existing efforts in some states, such as Maharashtra, which already bans HFSS products within the 50-meter radius of schools and has identified violations at over 130 shops. Industry groups, including the Confederation of Indian Food Trade and Industry, have expressed concern about potential business losses and the difficulty of enforcing the restrictions in busy markets. However, officials believe the regulations will encourage companies to reformulate recipes and offer healthier options.
Similar laws implemented in countries like Chile and Mexico have demonstrated success in reducing childhood obesity and prompting manufacturers to change their products. Data from the World Obesity Federation shows the number of overweight or obese children in India increased from 28 million in 2015 to 41 million in 2025, with projections reaching 56 million by 2040.
The authority invited public feedback on the proposed thresholds for HFSS content until October 6, but has not set a firm timeline for the law’s implementation.
