Panaji: In a bid to enhance the nutritional value of the mid-day meals (MDM) and promote healthier eating habits among students, the Directorate of Education (DoE) has asked the schools to reduce the usage of cooking oil by 10% in the preparation of MDM.
“This initiative aims to enhance the nutritional value of meals and promote healthier eating habits among students,” said Education Director Shailesh Zingde in a circular issued to schools.
The Union Ministry of Education has provided detailed guidelines on how this reduction should be implemented. “It is expected that all schools and MDM suppliers under the PM Poshan Scheme will comply,” the circular said.
The DoE has also recommended various activities to raise awareness among students on the benefits of reduced oil consumption, which include conducting a special class on the importance of minimising oil usage and inviting nutrition experts from Home Science colleges and Health Institutions to deliver informative sessions on low-oil diets and also share healthy recipes.
Additionally, the DoE has recommended organising school-level quiz competitions on healthy eating habits, encouraging participation in eco-club activities like talks, group discussions and essay writing on nutrition and well-being and reinforcing the significance of regular exercise and yoga to maintain a healthy lifestyle and burn excess calories.
“The teachers may be trained to identify obesity in students and guide parents on portion control and increasing physical activity of the student. Students may be encouraged to prepare low-oil recipes at home under supervision, share pictures on social media and promote healthier eating habits.”
DoE has also recommended conducting cooking classes through practical demonstrations to teach students how to prepare low-oil meals using alternative cooking methods and also encouraging school canteens to offer healthier, low-oil meal options and promote nutritious alternatives.
