The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has amended its regulations governing food served at educational institutions, banning the sale of carbonated drinks, energy drinks, artificial beverages, and several other products in canteens, cafeterias, and messes across the province.
The amended regulations, published in the Punjab Gazette, will apply to schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions. Food businesses operating within a 100-metre radius of educational institutions will also be required to comply.
Punjab Bans Unhealthy Items: What Is Prohibited
| Category | Banned Items |
|---|---|
| Beverages | Carbonated drinks, energy drinks, artificial beverages |
| Snacks | Cotton candy, gola ganda, ice lollies |
| Additives | Products prepared with Chinese salt |
| Harmful products | Tobacco and vapes |
| Scope | Canteens, cafeterias, messes + food businesses within 100 metres of institutions |
Three-Tier Food Classification System
The PFA has introduced a three-tier classification system — green, yellow, and red — for food items being sold or served at educational institutions. The system is designed to promote healthier food choices and discourage products with low nutritional value.
- Green category: Nutritionally beneficial food items that will be given preference on menus.
- Yellow category: Items that will be listed after green-category foods.
- Red category: Prohibited products that cannot be sold in canteens, cafeterias, or messes.
Why the Ban Was Introduced
PFA officials said the amended regulations were aimed at improving food standards in educational institutions and ensuring that students had access to healthier food options. PFA Director General Mansoor Ahmed said the revised framework had been prepared to bring food provision in educational institutions in line with international standards.
Action Against Violations
The authority has warned that violations may result in legal action. Parents can report the sale of prohibited or substandard food items through the official PFA helpline 1223.
FAQs About the Punjab Food Ban in Institutions
What items are banned in Punjab’s educational institutions?
Carbonated drinks, energy drinks, artificial beverages, products with Chinese salt, cotton candy, gola ganda, ice lollies, tobacco, and vapes are banned in canteens, cafeterias, and messes.
Which institutions are covered by the ban?
Schools, colleges, universities, and other educational institutions across Punjab. Food businesses within a 100-metre radius must also comply.
What is the three-tier classification system?
The PFA introduced green (nutritious, preferred), yellow (listed after green), and red (prohibited) categories for food items at educational institutions.
Why did the PFA introduce these regulations?
To improve food standards, give students access to healthier food options, and bring institutional food provision in line with international standards.
What happens if the rules are violated?
Violations may result in legal action. Parents can report prohibited or substandard food sales through the PFA helpline 1223.
Where were the regulations published?
The amended regulations were published in the Punjab Gazette.
Final Thoughts
The PFA’s ban on energy drinks, soft drinks, and junk snacks in educational institutions is a strong step for student health. Parents and school administrations should work together to make sure the rules are followed.
For more education updates, also read our article on KP Clarifies School Closures During Long March.