The Central Board of Secondary Education (“CBSE”) has introduced a new initiative called ‘Sugar Boards’ in schools across India. These boards display important information about sugar consumption and its effects on health. CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to install these sugar boards and upload photographs of them by July 15, 2025, as proof of compliance. This initiative aims to raise awareness among students about healthy eating habits and the importance of limiting sugar consumption.
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What are Sugar Boards?
Sugar Boards are special noticeboards placed in school hallways and classrooms. They show how much sugar is in common snacks and drinks, like chocolates, chips, and sodas. These boards also explain why eating too much sugar is bad for our health. The boards will have facts about:
- Recommended daily sugar limits: Guidelines on how much sugar is safe to consume each day.
- Sugar content in common foods: Information on how much sugar is present in popular snacks and drinks.
- Health risks of excessive sugar intake: Details about the dangers of consuming too much sugar, such as obesity, diabetes, and poor academic performance.
Why are Sugar Boards important?
Studies show that children in India are eating more sugar than they should. For example, children aged 4 to 10 are getting 13% of their daily calories from sugar, and those aged 11 to 18 are getting 15%, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended amount of only 5%.
- Obesity: Gaining too much Weight.
- Type 2 Diabetes: A disease that affects how your body uses sugar.
- Tooth Decay: Cavities and other dental issues.
What are schools doing?
Schools are not just putting up Sugar Boards, they’re also:
- Teaching students about healthy eating habits.
- Organising workshops for students, teachers, and parents.
- Encouraging physical activities to keep everyone active and healthy.
- Outlining healthier alternatives.
How can you help?
You can make healthier choices by:
- Choosing fruits and nuts instead of candies and chips.
- Drinking water or milk instead of sugary drinks.
- Reading labels to see how much sugar is in your food.