KOCHI: Junk food is definitely affecting the health of youngsters as a recent study shows the consumption of Junk food is leading to lifestyle diseases and obesity.The intiative is being taken up by the Centre who want to restrict the availability of junk food to school children.However,the execution of the plan is not happening as the State remains passive.
D Ashraffuddin, Joint Commissioner of Food Safety say, “The move to ban Junk food was only a suggestion, it has not yet been made into a legislation.” Many schools took initiative to ban Junk food in their school canteens. Dr Indira Rajan, Director of Minerva Education Trust Public School say, “These days most of the children fall sick due to consumption of junk food. We do not serve junk food items or aerated drinks in our canteens and also do not encourage the students to bring it to the campus.”
Adv T P M Ibrahim Khan, President of CBSE School Management Association says, “Most of the CBSE schools have banned junk food in their canteens. Strict action will be taken against those who don’t follow this.”
The health experts say that fast food consumption is causing an Obesity epidemic. It has higher concentration of trans fat and is nutrient deficient. They also tell that Junk food accelerates Menarche in girls and does not supplement to muscular growth in boys.
Banning junk food outside the school premises will not solve the problem as it should start from the house itself. Schools should check on the meals and snacks that children bring to school. The authorities should ensure children have nutritious meals than junk during the school time when there is increased physical activity. In this way, health risks can be prevented.