UAE schools enforce ban on soft drinks, chocolates and fries

2026-02-13 - 07:46

DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced stringent measures to promote healthy eating habits among schoolchildren, imposing a complete ban on soft drinks, chocolates, and potato chips in all schools across the country. The initiative, announced by the UAE Ministry of Education, is part of a broader campaign to improve nutrition and reduce childhood obesity. In addition to these popular snacks, the Ministry has prohibited foods containing allergy-inducing nuts, artificial colors, and items with high sugar content. These steps aim to protect children from dietary health risks and foster a culture of balanced nutrition from an early age. The ministry has urged parents to actively participate in their children’s dietary habits by providing a healthy breakfast at home. Recommended items include fresh fruits, low-fat milk, yogurt, and lightly baked or roasted foods that are both nutritious and suitable for school meals. Parents have also been encouraged to educate children about the importance of healthy eating to ensure long-term adherence to these guidelines. To ensure compliance, school administrations have been instructed to monitor students’ lunch boxes regularly. Any items that violate the new regulations will be flagged, with schools expected to provide guidance to parents and students on healthier alternatives. This monitoring aims not only to enforce the rules but also to raise awareness about the role of proper nutrition in overall health and academic performance. The Ministry of Education emphasized that these measures are part of the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding children’s well-being and creating a safe, health-conscious school environment. By focusing on natural, minimally processed foods, the country hopes to instill lifelong healthy habits in the younger generation. With these new regulations in place, the UAE sets an example for other nations seeking to prioritize the health of students and curb the rising trend of unhealthy eating among children.