Archive · 2 Aug 2026
Karnataka Bans HFSS Foods Near Schools in Health Drive
Karnataka, a state in India, decided to stop selling very fatty, sugary, and salty foods near schools and colleges.
They did this because these foods can make kids feel sick and hurt their learning.
In July 2026, officials checked 134 schools and nearby food shops.
They found many foods with a lot of refined carbs like white bread and snacks.
They took 53 food samples to test them.
If the shops keep selling these foods, the state can take legal action.
The goal is to help kids eat healthier and stay focused in class.
Karnataka banned sale of high‑fat, sugar, salt (HFSS) foods on school and college campuses and within 50 m of their boundaries.
The ban followed a July 2026 enforcement drive that inspected 134 schools, colleges and nearby food outlets.
Inspectors found many foods high in refined carbs, such as white bread, pasta and processed snacks, and collected 53 suspect samples for lab testing.
The directive aligns with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India guidelines and will trigger legal action if violations are confirmed.
Food safety officers were instructed to raise awareness among schools, vendors and the public to promote healthier eating habits.
- Who
- Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department
- What
- Banned sale of high‑fat, sugar, salt (HFSS) foods near schools and colleges
- When
- July 2026 enforcement drive; ban effective July 24, 2026
- Where
- Karnataka schools and colleges, within 50 metres of campuses
- Why
- To promote healthy eating habits and align with FSSAI guidelines
- Ban Effective Date
- July 24, 2026
- Scope
- Schools and colleges in Karnataka, within 50m radius
- Number of inspected institutions
- 134
- Number of suspect samples
- 53
- Regulatory body
- Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department
