Reducing Cooking Oil Usage Under PM-POSHAN

March 18, 2025

The Union government advised states to cut down cooking oil use by 10% in mid-day meals in government and aided schools. This is part of the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM-POSHAN) scheme to encourage healthier eating habits in students.

PM-POSHAN Scheme

The PM-POSHAN scheme is a government initiative designed to provide nutritious meals to students in government and aided schools. It primarily targets children enrolled in Bal-Vatika and classes 1 to 8. In Karnataka, the programme has been extended to include classes 9 and 10, benefiting around 54 lakh students. The meals are designed to be nutritionally balanced, incorporating fortified grains, pulses, and vegetables.

Health Concerns Addressed

The initiative responds to rising childhood obesity rates in India. According to Lancet journal, 12.5 million children (5-19 years) were overweight in 2022 compared to 0.4 million in 1990. This initiative aims to educate students about the health risks associated with excessive oil consumption and promote healthier cooking methods.

Training and Awareness

The advisory mandates training for all cook-cum-helpers in schools to reduce cooking oil usage. Schools are encouraged to conduct special classes on low-oil diets and invite nutrition experts for interactive sessions. Additionally, quiz competitions and essay writing contests will be organised to engage students and raise awareness about healthy eating.

Promoting Healthy Cooking Techniques

The initiative advocates for healthier cooking methods such as grilling, steaming, and boiling, rather than deep-frying. This shift aims to minimise the intake of unhealthy fats and oils. Schools are also encouraged to promote low-oil meal options in canteens and to educate students on preparing low-oil recipes at home.

Community Involvement

The advisory suggests involving parents and the community in the initiative. Special meetings of the School Management Committee will be held to discuss the importance of exercise and fitness. Awareness campaigns will be organised through seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to further promote healthy eating habits.

Nutritional Standards in Mid-Day Meals

Meals include fortified rice/wheat/coarse grains, pulses, and green leafy vegetables.
Double Fortified Salt (DFS) and fortified edible oil (with Vitamin A & D) are used:
- 5 gm for primary students.
- 7.5 gm for upper primary students.
Vegetables from School Nutrition Gardens are also used.

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