‘Establish Sugar Boards, Raise Awareness’: CBSE To All Schools, Flags Diabetes Risk Among Children

The Central Board of Secondary Education has directed all schools to establish sugar boards in a bid to spread awareness among children about risk of diabetes due to sugary snacks, beverages, and processed foods.

Significant increase in Type 2 diabetes among children is an alarming trend largely attributed to consumption of junk foods, noted CBSE in a circular letter released on Wednesday, 14 May.

"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," stated CBSE in its circular.

CBSE Directs Schools To Establish Sugar Boards: What Is It?

Sugar Boards is a one stop location which will provide the exact amount of sugar every soft drink and other junk food items will have. According to CBSE's circular, it will also have recommendation for daily sugar inake, and details of sugar content in other commonly consumed foods, mainly unhealthy meals like junk food, cold drinks, etc.

Sugar Boards: How Will It Benefit Children?

Establishing sugar boards in schools, would bring awareness among children about the items they are consuming. It will also help them understand the health risks associated with the consumption of high-sugar foods.
"This will enable students to make informed food choices and promote long-term health benefits among students," CBSE stated in its circular.

"Studies indicate that sugar constitutes 13% of daily calorie intake for children aged 4 to 10 years, and 15% for those aged 11 to 18 years, substantially exceeding the recommended limit of 5%. The proliferation of sugary snacks, beverages, and processed foods, often readily available in school environments, contributes significantly to this excessive intake," it added.

In addition to establishing sugar boards, schools have been asked to conduct seminars, workshops in this regard. Schools have also been asked to submit photographs and other associated documents of seminars and other events organised by them before 15 July, 2025.

Increased Sugar Intake Leading To Diabetes, Impacting Heart Health

While many studies have proven he impact of high sugar consumption and increased risk of diabetes, several reports have also suggested that there is a high risk of heart diseases among children who consume excessive sugar.

According to research by the American Heart Association, there is a strong link between added sugars and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases among children.

The research recommended that children should consume ≤25 g (100 cal or ≈6 teaspoons) of added sugars per day. The research also mentioned that to avoid added sugars for children

Health issues due to poor lifestyle behaviour have become increasingly common in India, not just in adults but also among children. Added sugar in processed food items might be energy dense but is nutrient poor. Regular consumption of these items may increase risk of health issues like obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, obesity-related cancers, and dental issues.