CBSE Orders Schools to Eliminate Junk Food, Introduce ‘Sugar & Oil Boards’ for Transparency

Greater Noida:
In a decisive move to curb childhood obesity and rising cases of early-age diabetes, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed schools across the country to remove junk food and high-sugar beverages from their canteens. Following the order, several schools in Noida and Greater Noida have revamped their menus, replacing fried and sugary items with healthier alternatives.

Canteens Replace Colas With Buttermilk, Juices and Fresh Soups

Schools have completely eliminated cold drinks and deep-fried snacks. In their place, buttermilk, fresh juices, soups, and hot coffee have been added to the winter menu. Awareness boards have been installed across all wings of the schools to promote healthy eating habits among students and staff.

To further encourage transparency, institutions have introduced “Oil Boards” and “Sugar Boards,” displaying the fat and sugar content of foods served in the canteen.

Health Experts Raise Alarm Over Childhood Diabetes

Brigadier Dr. R.K. Gupta, Director, expressed deep concern over the rising number of children diagnosed with diabetes at a young age.
He stated,
“Many children are already registered as diabetic patients. The only way to protect them is awareness and strict control over their diet.”

Principals Welcome CBSE’s Health Initiative

Jyoti Arora, Principal of Delhi World Public School (Greater Noida West), said:
“Junk food addiction from early childhood leads to lifelong health complications. We have removed cold drinks entirely and introduced healthier options like buttermilk and juices. Awareness boards have been placed throughout the campus.”

Preeti Phogat, Vice Principal of Savitri Bai Phule Balika Inter College, added that meals served on campus for girl students now contain minimal oil and sugar, and regular workshops are conducted to educate students about healthy habits.

Sudha Singh, Principal of Ryan International School, confirmed that all fried and sugary items have been removed from their canteen.
“Samosas have been replaced with vegetable patties and sandwiches. During winters, we have arranged fresh soups and hot coffee,” she said.

Deepika Sharma, a teacher at Father Agnel School, noted that students are being encouraged to reduce sugar intake and adopt regular yoga and fitness routines.

A Nationwide Shift Towards Healthy Campus Culture

The CBSE directive marks a significant step toward combating lifestyle diseases among children. With schools actively implementing these guidelines, the hope is to cultivate healthier dietary habits and prevent long-term health risks from an early age.