Protecting students: PMA calls for stricter enforcement of unhealthy food ban in schools
File photo courtesy: DIRPI IV Report: KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has called for stricter enforcement of the Sindh Food Authority's (SFA) ban on unhealthy food and drinks in schools and colleges across the province, with a transparent and accountable system for monitoring the compliance. PMA Secretary General Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro in a statement on April 11 emphasised the need for regular inspections, surprise checks, and a mechanism for reporting violations to ensure compliance. The SFA had initially issued a notification in 2018, calling for a ban on the sale of soft drinks, energy drinks, and colored, flavored snacks within and around educational institutions. This move, according to it, aims to promote healthy eating habits among students and reduce the risk of diet-related health issues. SFA maintained that it was committed to availability of safe, hygienic and healthy foods for the population, including the school goers, across Sindh. PMA Secr...