Fried rice, kottu and instant noodles could soon be banned from school canteens under a motion filed in Parliament by National People’s Power (NPP) MP Ruwanthilaka Jayakody, who has warned of a growing diabetes crisis among Sri Lankan children.
The Gampaha District MP called for the immediate formulation and implementation of a regulatory framework to restrict the sale of unhealthy food and beverages in school canteens across the country. The proposal appears in the latest Addendum to the Order Book of Parliament.
Jayakody cited concerns raised by specialist doctors over the rising incidence of diabetes among schoolchildren, attributing the trend largely to poor dietary habits and the widespread consumption of high-sugar and high-flour foods. He argued that popular items like kottu, fried rice and instant noodles are consumed in large quantities at schools and contribute to unhealthy eating patterns and long-term health risks.
The motion proposes clear government guidelines on food items permitted on school premises, aimed at promoting healthier choices and curbing the rise of non-communicable diseases among children. It calls for a comprehensive policy framework to ensure school canteens serve nutritious alternatives while discouraging the sale of food items linked to adverse health outcomes.
“Regulating food sold in schools is a critical step in safeguarding child health,” Jayakody said, urging authorities to act swiftly in light of medical warnings and the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related illnesses at a young age.
Sri Lanka’s health authorities have repeatedly flagged non-communicable diseases — including diabetes, heart disease and hypertension — as the country’s leading cause of death, accounting for 83% of mortality. The motion now awaits debate in Parliament.
