The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has written to the principals of all its affiliated schools to set up “Sugar Boards” to monitor and reduce sugar consumption among students. This initiative has been launched primarily to lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes and obesity in children.
CBSE has attributed the risk of diabetes in children to the consumption of “sugary snacks, beverages and processed foods”.
“Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in Type 2 diabetes among children, a condition once primarily seen in adults,” CBSE, an autonomous organisation under the aegis of the Ministry of Education, stated in a letter to the heads of CBSE schools.
The letter explained, “This alarming trend is largely attributed to high sugar intake, often due to the easy availability of sugary snacks, beverages, and processed foods within school environments.”
“The excessive consumption of sugar not only increases the risk of diabetes but also contributes to obesity, dental problems, and other metabolic disorders, ultimately impacting children’s long-term health and academic performance,” it further stated.
The studies referenced in the letter indicate that sugar makes up about 13 per cent of the daily calorie intake for children aged 4 to 10, and 15 per cent for those aged 11 to 18, which is well above the recommended intake of 5 per cent.
What will Sugar Boards do?
The ‘Sugar Boards’ will educate students about the risks associated with consuming excessive sugar.
It will also inform them of the recommended daily sugar intake, explain the sugar content in junk food, cold drinks, etc. and discuss the health risks associated with high sugar consumption.
The Sugar Boards across CBSE schools will also discuss healthier dietary alternatives.
This initiative is designed to help students make smarter food choices and encourage habits that support their health in the long term.
CBSE has also instructed schools to hold seminars and workshops to raise awareness about the risks associated with excessive sugar consumption.