RK Puram School In Nilgiris Receives Top Honour For Promoting Nutritious Eating

In today’s era, quick food items known as junk food are being increasingly consumed by people ranging from children to elderly. The consumption of such food leads to health issues like obesity and affects physical development negatively. At present, the Municipal Middle School RK Puram, in Nilgiris district near Ooty in Tamil Nadu, has adopted a healthy food culture among children. This school is the only one in the district to receive the Eat Right Campus Best School award, highlighting its distinction. Four teachers work here, providing clean surroundings, nutritious food twice a day (morning and noon), comfortable kitchens, play equipment, hygienic toilets and a smart classroom, all equipped with special features.

Also, a PTA teacher in this school teaches students to make eye-catching decorations out of unnecessary papers and materials, thus enforcing in them the habit of recycling. The headmaster of the school expressed deep pride in the recent accolade of being recognised as the best school in Nilgiri district for its exemplary food traditions. He highlighted that the school had organised a seminar dedicated to food habits, where students were provided comprehensive insights and explanations. This initiative aimed to enlighten students about the importance of making informed choices between nutritious foods and fast foods, thereby promoting a healthier lifestyle among the student community.

The audit was conducted based on international standards and protocols, which assessed the food preparation, the food served, the quality and sustainability of the food, cleanliness in the mess, and the health of the mess workers. The ‘Eat Right Campus’ initiative, spearheaded by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), seeks to encourage the adoption of safe, nutritious, and environmentally sustainable food practices in various institutions including schools, universities, colleges, workplaces, hospitals, and tea estates nationwide. The objective is to improve the health of people and promote the social and economic development of the nation.