Education Ministry in UAE enforces ban on fast food in school canteens

In a move aimed at promoting a healthier lifestyle and academic success, the UAE Ministry of Education has announced a ban on the sale and consumption of unhealthy foods in school cafeterias across the UAE. The decision is part of efforts to protect students' physical and mental health, with proper nutrition being described as the first line of defence against illness and a key role in enabling children to focus and excel.

The ban follows international health recommendations warning against the long-term risks of unhealthy foods for children, including obesity and chronic disease. Schools will no longer be allowed to sell or permit students to bring processed meats like mortadella and sausages, instant noodles, soft drinks, sugary snacks, chips, cakes, pastries high in fat and sugar, and flavored nuts. Peanuts and peanut-based products are also prohibited due to potential dangers for children with severe allergies.

The UAE Ministry of Education states that raising a generation capable of strong academic achievement and long-term well-being is a shared responsibility between schools and families. The ministry urges parents to provide balanced meals at home for children, emphasizing the importance of instilling healthy eating habits from a young age. Breakfast, described as the most important meal of the school day, is particularly highlighted.

However, the ministry did not announce any partnerships with health organizations to support the implementation of healthy meal practices or provide incentives for schools that adopt healthy meal practices. Neither did they extend the ban on unhealthy foods to meals provided at home, nor did they announce any specific penalties for violating the home meal guidelines. The search results do not provide information about the person or institution responsible for implementing the ban on unhealthy food in UAE schools.

The UAE's decision to ban unhealthy foods in schools is reported by Emirat Al Youm. The ministry states that schools must be environments that support healthy habits, as poor diets can negatively affect students' concentration and academic performance. The UAE Ministry of Education stresses that efforts to promote healthy eating habits are crucial for the overall well-being of children, and that it is essential to start instilling these habits from an early age.