
Keralam Urges Centre to Finalize Junk Food Regulations
What Happened?
Keralam's Health Minister K Muraleedharan announced plans to request the FSSAI to finalize rules for identifying and regulating foods high in fat, sugar, and salt. The aim is to curb unhealthy eating habits among children.
Key points
- Keralam will seek clarity from FSSAI on rules for foods high in fat, sugar, and salt.
- The state aims to regulate or prohibit the sale of junk food on school premises.
- Draft regulations were published by FSSAI on August 7, proposing specific limits for fat, sugar, and salt.
- Solid foods exceeding 4.2 grams of fat, 3 grams of sugar, or 0.625 grams of salt per 100 grams would be classified as junk food.
- Liquid foods exceeding 1.5 grams of fat, 2 grams of sugar, or 0.175 grams of salt per 100 millilitres would also be classified as junk food.
Key insights
- Finalizing these regulations may lead to clearer definitions of junk food, aiding enforcement.
- The initiative could enhance children's access to nutritious food in schools.
- Improved food safety standards may reduce health risks associated with unhealthy eating.
Why it matters
These regulations could significantly impact children's health by promoting healthier eating habits in schools.
Source
India Today

