Maharashtra FDA Makes FSSAI License Mandatory for School Canteens, Bans Junk Food Across Campuses
The Maharashtra FDA has made FSSAI licenses compulsory for school canteens, hostel kitchens, mid-day meal contractors, and Anganwadis while banning junk food in and around schools. The initiative, led by Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, aims to improve food safety, promote healthy eating habits among children, and strengthen accountability through a new online complaint system.
Maharashtra FDA Mandates FSSAI Licenses for School Canteens, Bans Junk Food
In a major step aimed at improving food safety and children's health, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made it mandatory for all school canteens, hostel kitchens, mid-day meal contractors, and Anganwadi centres to obtain a valid Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license.
FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe announced that the new directives are intended to ensure "safe food for every child in Maharashtra" and promote healthier eating habits among students.
Junk Food Banned Near Schools
Under the new regulations, the sale and advertisement of food items high in fat, trans fats, sugar, and other unhealthy ingredients have been banned within school premises and nearby areas.
School principals have been given the responsibility of ensuring strict implementation of these food safety norms and monitoring compliance on their campuses.
Part of Statewide Food Safety Drive
The latest order comes as part of the Maharashtra FDA's ongoing crackdown on food adulteration and unhygienic practices across the state. Over the past few weeks, the department has conducted inspections at several hotels, restaurants, and clubs, suspending FSSAI licenses where serious violations were found.
New Online Complaint Portal
To strengthen public participation, the FDA has also launched an online complaint portal — complaints.mahafda.in — where citizens can report food adulteration and hygiene-related issues.
According to the department, the portal received nearly 10 lakh visits within its first 24 hours and thousands of complaints were registered.
Under the new digital monitoring system:
•Complaints must be acknowledged by the concerned Joint Commissioner within 24 hours.
•They are then assigned to an officer for investigation.
•If action is not taken within the prescribed time, the complaint is automatically escalated to a senior official, ensuring greater transparency and accountability.
Focus on Child Health
The FDA believes these measures will help create a healthier food environment in educational institutions, improve hygiene standards, and ensure that children have access to safe and nutritious food throughout Maharashtra.