The Maharashtra government has announced a comprehensive ban on the sale of Sting energy drink and other intoxicating substances within a 500-metre radius of school premises. According to reports from PTI, Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal confirmed that immediate action will be taken against those responsible for selling such products near school campuses. The minister has directed the FDA to enforce these restrictions and has instructed schools to conduct awareness programmes to educate students about health risks associated with energy drink consumption. "The concerns raised by the honourable member regarding the sale of Sting energy drink in and around school premises are valid to some extent," Zirwal stated, emphasizing that if sales of such energy drinks or intoxicating substances are found within 500 metres of a school campus, "immediate action will be taken against those responsible."
This ban follows the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issuing notices to six energy drink brands on Wednesday over misbranding and misleading claims. As reported by PTI, the FSSAI notices targeted Red Bull Energy Drink, PepsiCo's Adrenaline Rush Energy Drink, Reliance Consumer Products' Campa Energy Drink Gold Boost, Hell Energy, and Coca-Cola-backed Monster Energy. The food regulator objected to claims including 'vitalises body and mind', 'enhancing focus', 'boost energy levels', and 'aid in general weakness' by these companies, stating such assertions are not permissible for food products under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Minister Zirwal acknowledged that concerns raised by BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute regarding Sting energy drink sales are valid to some extent. According to PTI reports, the government will strengthen awareness campaigns at the school level while ensuring effective implementation of the proposed restrictions. The minister emphasized that the concerns about energy drink sales near school premises are being taken seriously and appropriate action will be taken against violators. "The government would strengthen awareness campaigns at the school level while ensuring effective implementation of the proposed restriction," Zirwal stated, reiterating the government's commitment to protecting children from harmful energy drink marketing practices.
