Karnataka health dept bans junk food sales within 50 metres of schools, colleges

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, Aug 1, 2026: In a major step to promote healthier eating among students, the Karnataka Health Department has prohibited the sale of junk food within a 50-metre radius of schools and colleges across the state. The department has issued an official order enforcing the ban and launched a statewide inspection drive to ensure compliance.

As part of the initiative, officials carried out surprise inspections at around 134 schools and colleges in July. Inspection teams examined food outlets in and around educational institutions, checking food quality, hygiene standards, cleanliness, licensing documents, and product labels. They also monitored the sale of expired food items and collected 53 suspected food samples for laboratory testing.

The collected samples have been sent for analysis, and the Health Department said strict legal action will be taken against violators under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, based on the test results.

Under the new directive, the sale of junk food is completely prohibited within 50 metres of schools and colleges. The order is in line with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines that came into effect on July 21.

To encourage healthy eating habits among students, the department has also directed school and college managements to conduct awareness programmes on nutritious food choices. Compliance with the new rules has been made mandatory for all food vendors operating near educational institutions.

The Health Department reiterated its commitment to protecting students’ health and said regular inspection drives will continue to ensure strict enforcement of the regulations.