Punjab Bans Several Items in Schools, Colleges and Universities

The Punjab government has imposed a ban on the sale of certain beverages, food items, and tobacco products in educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities. The new food quality regulations, amended under Punjab Gazette, prohibit the sale of carbonated drinks, energy drinks, artificial beverages, and items containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), also known as Chinese salt. Additionally, candy floss, gola, ice lollies, tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes are also subject to the ban.

The amended regulations introduce a three-tier classification system for food items, labeled as green, yellow, and red, based on their nutritional value. Foods deemed nutritious are classified under the green category, while those with low nutritional value fall into the yellow and red categories. The objective of these changes is to promote healthier eating habits among students and discourage the sale of low-nutrient products.

These restrictions extend beyond the campus boundaries, affecting food businesses operating within a 100-meter radius of educational institutions. All such establishments, including on-campus canteens and cafeterias, must adhere to the new rules. This comprehensive approach ensures that the healthier eating initiative reaches a wider audience, encompassing nearby food outlets as well.