In response to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s clarion call for urgent action against obesity and reducing oil consumption by 10%, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) urged States and UTs to step up awareness efforts and implement concrete measures to tackle the growing public health concern. The matter was deliberated during the 47th Central Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting held on May 27th, 2025 in New Delhi.
During the extensive deliberations, States and UTs were strongly urged to scale up comprehensive measures, including widespread public awareness campaigns, to effectively address the Prime Minister’s call for a obesity-free and healthier nation.
A significant point of discussion was the recent directive from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) regarding the establishment of ‘sugar boards’ in schools. The FSSAI stressed the need for states to actively support and implement this crucial initiative in a big way, recognizing its potential to significantly curb excessive sugar consumption among school-going children and foster healthier dietary habits from a young age.
The FSSAI emphasized that states are key to the successful execution of these public health initiatives. Discussions revolved around strategies for states to enhance their food safety surveillance, promote the ‘Eat Right India’ movement, and encourage the availability of nutritious and safe food options across all segments of society. The Authority reiterated its commitment to providing all necessary technical guidance and support to states and UTs in their endeavours.
The 47th CAC meeting was attended by over 60 participants, including Commissioners of Food Safety, senior officials from States and UTs, representatives from central ministries, and stakeholders from the food industry, consumer groups, agriculture, laboratories, and research organizations.
The CBSE, following recommendations from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), has directed all affiliated schools to install ‘Sugar Boards’ by July 15, 2025.
The ‘Sugar Boards’ in schools aim to visually represent how much sugar is present in commonly consumed snacks and drinks, comparing it with the recommended daily intake.
The ‘Sugar Boards’ will display information on recommended daily sugar intake Sugar content in common junk foods and beverages, the health risks of high sugar consumption and also provide healthier food alternatives.
