The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step to control the consumption of high-caffeine beverages among young people. A ban has been imposed on the sale of energy drinks like Sting within a 500-meter radius of schools across the state. This decision was announced by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister Narhari Zirwal in the State Legislative Assembly following concerns raised by BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute.
MLA Vikram Pachpute emphasized the serious health risks associated with these popular energy drinks, especially for school children. Despite warnings on the bottles stating that the drink is unsuitable for children and pregnant women, it is being sold near school premises. Pachpute argued that the long-term effects of these energy drinks on children are more dangerous than alcohol, urging for an immediate ban.
In response to these concerns, FDA Minister Narhari Zirwal acknowledged the widespread distribution of energy drinks around schools. He assured the Assembly that a 500-meter restriction zone around schools would be strictly enforced, not only banning narcotics but also energy drinks. BJP MLA Rahul Kul further called for a comprehensive investigation into substance abuse and food adulteration near schools, highlighting the sale of narcotics disguised as flavored betel leaf and the presence of sugary flavored milk products with artificial additives.
Minister Zirwal confirmed that a thorough internal investigation into these products is already in progress under FDA supervision. He mentioned the issuance of administrative circulars on October 3, 2024, and September 17, 2025, directing authorities to inspect vendors within 500 meters of educational institutions, collect food samples for analysis, and take strict action against misleading advertisements. The term ‘Energy Drinks’ may not be explicitly defined under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, but these products are regulated as ‘Non-Alcoholic Caffeinated Beverages’ under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.
The legislative discussions coincided with the appointment of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, known for his zero-tolerance approach to corruption, at the Vidhan Bhavan. Mundhe has launched a statewide campaign against banned gutkha, pan masala, and unhygienic eateries. As part of this enforcement drive, the FDA has revoked the food safety licenses of six prominent establishments in Mumbai for violating food safety regulations.
