New school cafeteria rules ban certain foods to combat obesity

• Dr. Shaima Al-Asfour said 26 companies have been approved as suppliers to school cafeterias after passing rigorous food and technical audits to ensure they provide healthy meals meeting the highest standards.

• The Ministry of Education previously underscored the importance of school administrations adhering to the health requirements list for cafeterias.

The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition announced on Wednesday the adoption of a new school cafeteria regulation under Ministerial Resolution No. 5 of 2021. This initiative aims to promote public health and combat obesity among students by ensuring a safe and healthy food environment in both public and private schools across Kuwait, according to Al Jarida newspaper.

Dr. Shaima Al-Asfour, Deputy Director General of the Community Nutrition Affairs Sector at the authority, told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the new regulation allows only certain foods that meet healthy nutrition standards for children and adolescents, while banning those that contribute to weight gain or may harm their health.

She explained that the approved food items adhere to sound school nutrition standards, containing essential food groups fortified with vitamins and minerals and low in sugar and salt. The banned items include foods with eggs, mayonnaise, processed meats, caffeinated drinks ‘such as coffee and energy drinks’, soft drinks, foods with artificial dyes, and those high in salt.

Dr. Al-Asfour stated that 26 companies have been approved as suppliers to school cafeterias after passing rigorous food and technical audits to ensure they provide healthy meals meeting the highest standards.

She emphasized the importance of continued cooperation with the Ministry of Education to monitor and inspect schools through a specialized team of nutritionists and food inspectors, ensuring adherence to cafeteria regulations for the safety and health of students.

Dr. Al-Asfour also highlighted the authority’s commitment to improving the quality of food in school cafeterias and ensuring that suppliers adhere to the highest food quality standards.

The Ministry of Education previously underscored the importance of school administrations adhering to the health requirements list for cafeterias, which includes approved items such as juices, dairy products, biscuits, fresh fruits and vegetables, pies, sandwiches, and dried fruits.