Delhi schools to educate children on junk food, unhealthy eating habits

The Delhi government has instructed all government, aided, and private recognised schools to sensitise students about processed foods, food safety, and the harmful effects of unhealthy diets.

In a recent circular, the Directorate of Education highlighted the need to make children aware of both the benefits and drawbacks of processed foods. While food processing can improve safety, enhance taste, extend shelf life, and reduce wastage, the advisory cautioned that excessive consumption of ultra-processed items high in sugar, salt, and fat can be harmful to health.

The move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June 29 Mann Ki Baat address, where he urged people to cut down on oil and unhealthy food as part of lifestyle changes to tackle obesity and promote overall wellness.

The circular also addressed food adulteration concerns, directing schools to use 'bagless days' to educate



students about pesticides, fertilisers, and additives used in food, as well as the preparation of processed items available in the market.

It further stressed that teaching children the scientific principles of food processing, innovations in the sector, and their health implications would help them make informed choices, dispel misconceptions, and even encourage interest in careers related to food technology and nutrition.

Schools have additionally been asked to align their efforts with CBSE-led nutrition awareness initiatives. The Directorate noted that the Department of School Education and Literacy has already circulated an advisory recommending a 10 per cent reduction in oil consumption across states and Union Territories.

To ensure compliance, school heads have been directed to submit an Action Taken Report detailing their activities to the Health and School Branch by September 20.