Saudi education authorities have updated their guidelines on school canteens, allowing coffee and tea to be sold only in secondary schools, while banning these drinks in kindergartens, primary, and middle schools. This restriction aims to promote healthy nutrition among students.
Updated Guidelines for School Canteens
The Ministry of Education released new guidelines outlining health requirements for school canteens during the current academic year. The sale of coffee and tea is permitted only in secondary schools, with specific rules regarding portion sizes and sugar content.
Portion Size and Sugar Limits
According to Okaz, the size of coffee or tea cups must not exceed 240mm, and the amount of sugar added to hot drinks must not exceed two teaspoons upon request. This measure is intended to reduce excessive sugar intake among high school students.
Banned Items in School Canteens
The updated guidelines also include a list of banned items from school canteens, aiming to create a healthier environment for students. These items include:
- Sugary drinks
- Energy drinks
- Fizzy drinks
- Flavored vitamins
- Sports drinks
- Juices with less than 30% real fruit
- Drinks with artificial colors, preservatives, and sweeteners
- Ice cream, chocolate-covered biscuits, croissants, and chips
- Peanuts, flavored milk, and chocolate milk
Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits
Other banned items include evaporated and condensed milk, as well as milk and yogurt containing artificial flavors or colors. These restrictions are part of the ministry’s efforts to encourage healthy eating habits and ensure students are consuming balanced, nutritious meals during school hours.
Nutrition Guidelines for Packaged Food
The Ministry of Education also emphasized that packaged food products available in schools must meet certain nutrition standards. The total values of fats, sugars, added sugar, and salt per serving should be less than 20% of the recommended daily intake, according to the new guidelines.
Aim for a Healthier School Environment
The new restrictions are designed to provide a safe and healthy school environment, promoting awareness about the importance of nutrition among students and staff. By limiting the availability of unhealthy foods and drinks, the ministry hopes to instill better eating habits at an early age.
