The directive, issued following recommendations from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), is part of a broader initiative to combat rising health issues linked to high sugar consumption among children.
According to the CBSE notification, excessive sugar intake has been identified as a major contributor to a growing number of cases of Type 2 diabetes, obesity, dental problems, and other metabolic disorders in children. Current data indicates that sugar constitutes 13% of daily calorie intake for children aged 4 to 10 years, and 15% for those aged 11 to 18 years—significantly exceeding the World Health Organisation’s recommended limit of 5%.
“The excessive consumption of sugar not only increases the risk of diabetes but also contributes to obesity, dental problems, and other metabolic disorders, ultimately impacting children’s long-term health and academic performance,” the circular stated.
How will this work? What will schools do?
Under the new guidelines, all CBSE-affiliated schools are required to set up ‘Sugar Boards’ that provide clear, visible information on:
- The recommended daily sugar intake for children
- Sugar content in commonly consumed food and beverages
- Health risks of excessive sugar consumption
- Healthier alternatives to sugary products
In addition, schools must organise awareness seminars and workshops to educate students about mindful eating habits and the long-term benefits of reducing sugar intake.
Schools have been instructed to submit a brief report along with photographic evidence of the activities in PDF format by July 15, 2025, via the prescribed online link.
FSSAI laid the groundwork
While the directive is being welcomed as a progressive step, questions are being raised about why such an initiative is being rolled out only now. Notably, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) had already laid the groundwork for healthier school environments through a gazette notification issued on September 4, 2020. The regulation mandated schools to:
- Display boards promoting balanced diets and information on nutrients
- Prohibit sale and marketing of foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, added sugars, and sodium
- Ensure that such products are not sold within 50 metres of school campuses
Despite these earlier regulations, implementation has been inconsistent, prompting renewed efforts to ensure compliance and awareness. Given the delay, FSSAI kept on initiating talks with all such boards and institutions to bring these guidelines in daily practice.
For this FSSAI initiated discussions with CBSE, Commissioners of Kendriya Vidyalayas (KV) and Navodaya Vidyalayas and requested them to start “health clubs” in schools, along with enacting these prescribed steps.
Expert’s take
Health experts and educators alike see the CBSE’s new initiative as a vital measure to address the growing public health concern of childhood obesity and lifestyle diseases.
By fostering greater nutrition literacy, the initiative aims to empower students to make informed food choices that support their academic performance and long-term well-being.
