India takes junk food war to school gates
India is considering new regulations to limit the sale of high-fat and high-sugar foods within a 50-meter radius of schools, aiming to curb childhood obesity. The proposal, which would affect family-owned stores, restaurants, and food stalls selling items like sugary soft drinks, salty chips, and greasy pizzas, could impact multinationals such as PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Mondelez, and Nestle.
Shopkeepers near schools in Bhubaneswar, eastern India, expressed concern over potential sales declines of up to one-third. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, leading the drive, aims to instill healthier habits in children. The timeline for implementing the law remains uncertain, with public feedback welcomed until October 6.
Chile and Mexico have already implemented stricter regulations, while Maharashtra in western India has banned such products within 50 meters of schools.
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