Abu Dhabi has introduced a strict policy to ban on junk food and promote healthy eating in schools. This new initiative, launched by the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), took effect during the 2024/25 academic year.
Under the new rules, schools must provide nutrient-rich and sustainable food options to students and staff. Additionally, they are required to obtain necessary licenses and maintain inspection records to ensure compliance. These measures aim to create a safe and health-conscious food environment while encouraging students to make better food choices.
Key Rules for Healthy Eating Habits
To enforce these guidelines, schools must actively supervise students during snack and meal times. They are required to:
Ensure students eat acceptable foods and avoid allergens that could harm others.
Guarantee that all students, except those fasting, have access to meals daily.
Monitor for troubling behaviors, such as eating disorders or food-related bullying.
Furthermore, schools must ensure that unhealthy food items, such as alcohol, carbonated drinks, and pork, are not allowed at events. Unsafe foods, including allergen-containing items like nuts, are also banned from personal consumption and distribution on school premises.
Parental Involvement for Ban on Junk food
In addition to school efforts, parents play an essential role in promoting healthy eating. Schools should provide clear guidelines to parents about balanced diets and food restrictions. These guidelines must discourage packing unhealthy options like fried foods, which contribute to obesity, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. By involving parents, schools can reinforce healthy habits at home and school.
Food Services and Safety Regulations
To ensure food safety, schools must comply with Abu Dhabi’s government regulations. Teachers and canteen staff must attend training conducted by the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC). These training sessions aim to teach staff how to encourage healthy eating while interacting with students.
In addition, external food delivery services, such as Talabat and Deliveroo, are prohibited during school hours. This rule helps schools maintain control over the nutritional value and safety of the food provided to students.
Encouraging Student regarding ban on junk food
Students are also involved in improving school food services. Schools should collect feedback through forms or meetings to understand their preferences. By involving students, schools can make changes that reflect the needs and opinions of their communities.
The policy requires schools to respect the religious, cultural, and ethical needs of students when planning meals. For students with allergies, schools must:
Maintain accurate records of food allergies and share them with relevant staff.
Clearly label allergens in food items provided by the school.
Conduct risk assessments to minimize exposure to allergens.
Establish protocols to handle allergic reactions, including the proper storage of necessary medications.
This policy also emphasizes the long-term goal of building a healthy food culture in schools. Through education, schools can raise awareness about the importance of healthy and sustainable eating habits. These efforts aim to protect students’ health and encourage lifelong good practices.