India moves to restrict junk food sales near schools

India is preparing to introduce new restrictions on the sale of foods high in fat, salt and sugar near schools as authorities seek to tackle rising levels of childhood obesity.

The proposed regulations would restrict the sale and promotion of unhealthy food products within 50 metres of schools across the country. The measure could affect grocery stores, restaurants and street food vendors operating near India’s approximately 1.5 million schools.

The proposed rules would cover products such as sugary drinks, chips, chocolates, pizzas, burgers and other foods classified as high in fat, salt and sugar. The move could also create new challenges for major food and beverage companies operating in India.

India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority is leading the proposed changes. The regulator has already published nutritional thresholds that would determine which products face restrictions around schools. The public has been invited to submit feedback on the proposals until October 6.

FSSAI chief executive Rajit Punhani said the policy is intended to encourage healthier eating habits among children from an early age. He also said businesses would still be able to sell products that do not fall under the high-fat, salt and sugar category.

The proposed restrictions have raised concerns among shopkeepers and food businesses located near schools. Some retailers in Bhubaneswar said they could face a significant decline in sales if the rules are implemented.

Industry representatives have also questioned how the 50-metre restriction would work in crowded commercial areas where schools are surrounded by shops serving the wider public. A trade industry group has argued that the restrictions should be limited to food sold inside schools.

The government has been considering the proposal since 2020, but there is currently no fixed date for its implementation. The move comes as Indian authorities step up efforts to address food safety and unhealthy dietary habits.

Childhood obesity has become an increasing concern in India. Data from the World Obesity Federation shows that the number of overweight or obese Indian children aged between five and 19 rose from around 28 million in 2015 to about 41 million in 2025. The figure is projected to reach 56 million by 2040.

Some Indian states have already adopted stricter measures. Maharashtra has moved to prevent shops within 50 metres of schools from stocking certain high-fat, salt and sugar products. State officials said inspections had identified violations at more than 100 shops, with several businesses ordered to stop operating.

India’s proposed policy follows similar measures adopted in other countries. Chile, for example, introduced restrictions on junk food sales and advertising in schools along with warning labels on products. Research has found that the measures were followed by changes in consumer behaviour and encouraged manufacturers to reformulate some products.