How Are TN Schools Promoting Awareness on ‘Oil, Sugar, Salt’?
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Synopsis
In a proactive step towards combating childhood obesity, Tamil Nadu's Food Safety Department is set to install informative boards in schools. This initiative aims to educate students on the risks of high-fat and high-sugar diets, encouraging healthier food choices. With engaging visuals, the campaign seeks to foster awareness of food safety among the youth.
Key Takeaways
- Promotion of healthy eating through informative boards.
- Focus on the dangers of high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt diets.
- Engaging visuals to enhance student understanding.
- Collaboration with national health authorities.
- Regular monitoring of school canteens for food safety.
Chennai, July 15 (NationPress) In a significant move to encourage healthy eating habits and elevate awareness regarding food safety among students, the Food Safety Department of Tamil Nadu is set to introduce ‘oil, sugar, and salt’ boards in all educational institutions throughout the Coimbatore district.
This initiative targets the increasing rates of childhood obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by informing students about the detrimental effects of diets high in fats, sugars, and salts.
The boards, created by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), will display informative posters and digital content.
They will explain the recommended daily limits for sugar, salt, and oil, while detailing how excessive intake can negatively affect health, including elevating the risk of obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions.
To engage children effectively, these boards will incorporate vibrant illustrations and cartoons. Officials are optimistic that this visual strategy will enhance students' comprehension of food safety and nutrition.
This campaign is launched under directives from the Union Health Ministry and the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), which has mandated all affiliated schools to implement these awareness boards.
Coimbatore District Collector Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar has instructed the prompt initiation of the campaign in schools across the district. Dr. T. Anuradha, Designated Officer, Food Safety Department, Coimbatore, stated, “The consumption of high fat, sugar, or salt (HFSS) foods is a primary contributor to obesity and other non-communicable diseases. This initiative will assist students in recognizing the risks and making healthier food choices. Food Safety Officers (FSOs) in each taluk are tasked with overseeing the installation of boards and conducting regular awareness sessions.”
Additionally, FSOs will monitor school canteens to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
The FSSAI has also recommended a model for a nutritious meal to replace the typically oily, salty, or sugary offerings found in public institutions. The campaign is promoted under the social media slogan ‘Stop Obesity and Eat Right India,’ and will be launched in Coimbatore schools within the week.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the importance of such initiatives that promote food safety and nutritional awareness among children. This proactive step by Tamil Nadu's Food Safety Department not only addresses the alarming rise in childhood obesity but also educates the future generation on making informed dietary choices, a vital aspect of public health.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main goals of the initiative?
The initiative aims to promote healthy eating habits among students, raise awareness about food safety, and combat childhood obesity and non-communicable diseases.
What will the boards display?
The boards will feature information on the recommended daily intake of sugar, salt, and oil, along with the health risks associated with excessive consumption.
Who is overseeing the implementation of this campaign?
The Food Safety Officers (FSOs) in each taluk are responsible for overseeing the installation of the boards and conducting regular awareness sessions.
What is the expected impact of this initiative?
The initiative is expected to educate students on healthy food choices and reduce the risk of obesity and related health issues.
When will the campaign be launched?
The campaign will be launched in schools across Coimbatore within the week.
