New initiative by Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to establish “Sugar Boards” in schools
There has been a significant increase in Type-2 diabetes in children over past few years, a condition, once was seen in adults only. Type 2 diabetes happens when the body cannot use insulin correctly and sugar builds up in the blood leading high sugar levels in the body.
The rising health issues among children are mainly due to high sugar intake, driven by the easy access to sugary snacks, drinks, and processed foods in schools. This leads to increased risks of diabetes, obesity, dental problems, and other metabolic disorders, negatively affecting their long-term health and academic performance. Studies show that children consume far more sugar than recommended, with 4 to10 year olds getting 13% and 11 to18 year olds getting 15% of their daily calories from sugar—well above the 5% guideline. This high intake is largely due to the widespread availability of sugary snacks, drinks, and processed foods, especially in school settings.
In view of above, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has urged schools:
- To establish ‘Sugar Boards’ where information is displayed for educating students about the risks of excessive sugar intake. These boards should provide essential information, including the recommended daily sugar intake, the sugar content in commonly consumed foods (unhealthy meals such as junk food, cold drinks, etc.), health risks associated with high sugar consumption, and healthier dietary alternatives. This will educate students about informed food choices and promote long-term health benefits among students.
- Organize awareness seminars/ workshops in this regard to curb excessive sugar consumption in children and promote healthy eating habits from an early age.
CBSE has also requested schools to upload a brief report of the above and few photographs at the following link, in pdf format, on or before 15th July 2025: https://shorturl.at/E3kKc
Disclaimer: This is an effort by Lexcomply.com, to contribute towards improving compliance management regime. User is advised not to construe this service as legal opinion and is advisable to take a view of subject experts.