Maharashtra bans sale of high-caffeine energy drinks within 500 metres of schools to protect children’s health

INDIA – The Maharashtra government has announced a ban on the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks within a 500-metre radius of schools, marking a significant step to protect children’s health and reduce their exposure to highly caffeinated beverages.  

The decision was announced in the State Legislative Assembly by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister Narhari Zirwal following concerns over the widespread availability of energy drinks near educational institutions. 

Responding to issues raised by BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute, Minister Zirwal acknowledged that energy drinks continue to be sold outside schools despite growing concerns over their suitability for children.  

He said the state would strictly enforce a 500-metre no-sale zone for energy drinks around educational institutions alongside existing restrictions on narcotics and other harmful substances. 

“Energy drinks are commonly sold near schools despite concerns over their suitability for children,” Zirwal said, adding that authorities would strengthen enforcement to ensure compliance with the new restriction. 

The minister also informed the Assembly that officials have been instructed to conduct regular inspections of vendors operating near schools, collect food and beverage samples for laboratory analysis, and take action against misleading advertisements or products found to violate food safety regulations. 

The initiative forms part of a broader effort by the Maharashtra government to create healthier environments around schools while limiting children’s access to products that may pose long-term health risks. 

Pachpute argued that although energy drinks comply with existing manufacturing standards, their widespread availability near schools encourages excessive consumption among children.  

He noted that several energy drink labels already advise that the products are not recommended for children or pregnant women. 

“Despite these warnings, the beverages continue to be sold openly outside school premises, making them easily accessible to students,” Pachpute said. He also urged the government to consider introducing age-based restrictions on the sale of energy drinks to minors. 

Meanwhile, BJP MLA Rahul Kul called for a broader investigation into products sold around schools. He alleged that narcotics are sometimes disguised as flavoured betel products and also expressed concern over flavoured milk beverages containing excessive sugar and artificial additives. 

Minister Zirwal told the House that the FDA has already launched a high-level investigation into products being sold near educational institutions.  

He referred to administrative circulars issued on October 3, 2024, and September 17, 2025, directing officials to strengthen inspections around schools and take strict enforcement action where necessary. 

The government also plans to encourage schools to conduct awareness programmes highlighting the health risks associated with excessive consumption of caffeinated and sugary beverages. 

The announcement follows recent action by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which issued notices to six major energy drink manufacturers over alleged misbranding and misleading promotional claims.  

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