In a Notification dated 30th October 2019 the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (“FSSAI”) has issued a Draft Regulation “Food Safety and Standards (Safe food and healthy diets for School Children) Regulations, 2019”. While the Draft Regulations proposes to lay down responsibilities for School Authority to ensure food safety and healthy diets in school premises, it also specifically proposes to lay down responsibilities for Food Business Operators.
Objections and suggestions pertaining to the Draft Regulation can be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, Food and Drug Administration Bhavan, Kotla Road, New Delhi – 110002 by 30th November, 2019.
Following are some of the proposed responsibilities:
- Manufacturers of High Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS) food products – shall not advertise or offer for free sale of such foods to children in school premises or within 50 meters of the School campus.
- Food Business Operators(FBOs) marketing food to children – When marketing foods to children, FBOs shall:
(a) Depict and package/serve food in reasonable portion sizes and not encourage overeating directly or indirectly.
(b) Develop new products that help children eat healthy, especially with regard to nutrient density, energy density, and portion size.
(c) Reformulate products to improve their nutritional quality, including adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and reducing portion sizes, calories, sodium, refined sugars, and saturated and trans fats.
(d) Only offer premiums and incentives such as toys, trading cards, apparel, club memberships, contests, reduced-price specials, or coupons with foods, meals, and brands that meet the nutrition criteria described above.
(e) Use sponsorship of sporting, school, and other events for children only with brands and foods that meet the above nutrition criteria.
Source: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
