Bengaluru School Canteens Curb Sugary Snacks to Fight Obesity
As the world grapples with the rising tide of childhood obesity and its attendant health risks, a quiet revolution is underway in Bengaluru’s schools. In a bid to combat the increasing menace of excessive sugar consumption, school canteens and tuck shops across the city are phasing out sugary and oily snacks. This initiative, inspired by recent advisories from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) boards, aims to protect the health and well-being of India’s future generations.
The problem of childhood obesity is a pressing concern in India, with the country ranking among the top five in the world in terms of childhood obesity rates. According to a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 42 million children under the age of 5 are overweight or obese, with the numbers expected to rise to 70 million by 2025. Type 2 diabetes, a condition once considered rare in children, is now becoming increasingly prevalent, and the link between excessive sugar consumption and these health issues is well-documented.
In response to these alarming trends, the CBSE and ICSE boards have issued guidelines recommending a reduction in sugary and oily snacks in school canteens. The advisories, which were widely publicized in the media, have sparked a wave of enthusiasm among Bengaluru’s educational institutions, with many schools eager to implement the new guidelines.
One of the pioneers of this initiative is the prestigious Bangalore International School (BIS), which has been at the forefront of promoting healthy eating habits among its students. According to the school’s nutritionist, “We have been working towards reducing the amount of sugar and oil in our canteen for some time now. We have introduced a range of healthy snack options, including fruits, nuts, and whole grain biscuits, which are not only nutritious but also appealing to our students.”
BIS is not alone in its efforts. Many other schools in the city, including the likes of Delhi Public School (DPS), Indus International School, and the International School of Bangalore (ISB), have also begun phasing out sugary snacks from their canteens. The response from students and parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the initiative.
So, what changes have schools made to their canteen menus? For starters, many schools have eliminated or reduced the number of sugary drinks, such as cola and fruit juices, which are high in sugar and calories. They have also introduced a range of healthy beverages, including water, milk, and 100% fruit juice.
In terms of snacks, schools have replaced traditional options like biscuits, cakes, and pastries with healthier alternatives. These include whole grain snacks like brown bread, oats, and whole wheat crackers, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. Schools have also introduced a range of savory snacks, such as nuts, seeds, and roasted chickpeas, which are high in fiber and protein.
But the changes don’t stop there. Many schools are also working to improve the quality of their food ingredients, sourcing locally grown and organic produce whenever possible. This not only ensures that students are getting the best possible nutrition but also supports local farmers and reduces the school’s carbon footprint.
The impact of these changes is already being felt. Students who were previously hooked on sugary snacks are now opting for healthier alternatives, and parents are reporting a significant reduction in their children’s sugar cravings. Moreover, schools are seeing a decrease in the number of students complaining about stomachaches, headaches, and other health issues linked to excessive sugar consumption.
While the initiative is still in its early stages, the response from Bengaluru’s educational institutions is heartening. By working together to promote healthy eating habits, schools are not only helping to combat childhood obesity and related health issues but also empowering students to make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle.
As we continue to navigate the complex challenges of childhood obesity, it is heartening to see schools taking proactive steps to promote healthy eating habits. By reducing sugary snacks and promoting healthy, nutritious food options, Bengaluru’s school canteens are setting a shining example for other institutions to follow.
