Junk foods have gained rapid popularity as they are easily available, ready to eat or served ready to eat as fast foods. Additives used in junk food make them more appealing and palatable which in-turn encourages consumption. Junk foods are known to cause adverse health effects like obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia etc., yet it is widely consumed especially among the adolescents. A study was undertaken with the objective to assess the knowledge level regarding junk food consumption among school children in Dharwad district. Schools selected were Narendra School in rural area and Krishinagar school in urban area. Random sampling technique was employed for selection of the samples. A total of 120 students (60 each school) studying in class 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th were selected. Each subject was asked to fill the questionnaire. Subjects belonged to age group of 13 – 16 years. Family occupation among most of the subjects was agriculture and the family income was less than Rs. 1 lakh per annum. Breakfast was consumed at home and lunch was provided at school under mid-day meal scheme. Food outlets available nearby were petty shops, canteen, bakery, grocery stores and hotels. Majority of subjects 36 (60.00%) from Narendra and 46 (76.67%) Krishinagar were knowing about junk foods but knowledge regarding various ingredients, preservatives and chemicals used in preparation of junk foods and their adverse health effects was limited. Junk food consumption among most of the subjects was on monthly basis that is 21 (35.00%) from Narendra and 17 (28.33%) from Krishinagar. Commonly consumed junk food were deep fried items like chips, namkeens, sweets and other items like toffees, candies and coloured ice candies. Hence there is a need create awareness and impart knowledge regarding junk food and its effect on health among school children. KEY WORDS: Junk foods, fast foods, preservatives, chemicals, health.