As the new academic year approaches, the Ministry of Education in Kuwait is taking proactive measures to ensure a healthy environment for students across all educational levels. A significant part of this initiative involves regulating the food offered in school canteens.

The Ministry has approved a selection of nutritious food items, such as juices, pies, milk, sandwiches, various types of biscuits, crackers, salads, and fruits, for sale in school cafeterias. However, to promote healthier eating habits among students, seven specific food items have been banned. These include soft drinks, canned juices, sports drinks, energy drinks, and certain processed foods.

List of Prohibited Foods

The General Authority for Food and Nutrition, in collaboration with the Ministry, has outlined the following list of banned food items in school canteens:

All types of soft drinks

All canned fruit juices

Sports drinks and energy drinks

Chewing gum, lollipops, candy, and sweets

French fries and processed meats, such as sausages

Pickles, mayonnaise, and fatty sauces

Strict Standards for Approved Food Items

To ensure the highest quality and safety, the Ministry has approved 14 food companies to supply items that meet the stringent standards set by the General Authority for Food and Nutrition. These standards emphasize the importance of fresh, healthy food options for students. For instance, milk products, sandwiches, pies, and pastries must be delivered fresh on the day they are made. Additionally, items that have passed more than half of their shelf life or are packaged in damaged containers are not allowed. Glass containers are also prohibited in school cafeterias.

In preparation for the upcoming school year, the Ministry’s Educational Facilities Sector has instructed its engineering teams to ensure that all school facilities are ready by early September. This comprehensive approach aims to provide students with a smooth and healthy start to their academic journey.