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Healthy Eating Now Mandatory in Abu Dhabi Schools

New guidelines aim to create a safe, nutritious food environment for students and staff

  • Publish date: Monday، 20 January 2025
Healthy Eating Now Mandatory in Abu Dhabi Schools

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has rolled out a comprehensive healthy food policy for schools, effective from the 2024/25 academic year. The initiative requires schools to ensure a safe, nutritious food environment while actively promoting healthy eating habits among students and staff.

Key Requirements for Schools

The policy outlines several measures to enhance food safety and nutrition on campus:

Healthy Meals Only

Schools must provide nutrient-rich meals and prohibit unhealthy options like fried foods, carbonated drinks, and pork.

Supervision During Mealtimes

Staff must monitor students to ensure they eat appropriate foods, avoid allergens, and prevent food-related bullying or disorders.

Prohibited Deliveries

External food deliveries from services like Talabat and Deliveroo are banned during school hours to control food quality and safety.

Healthy Eating Now Mandatory in Abu Dhabi Schools

Parental Involvement in Healthy Eating

Parents are encouraged to support the policy by adhering to school-provided guidelines on balanced meals. These guidelines discourage packing unhealthy foods, such as fried items, which contribute to health risks like obesity and diabetes.

Training and Compliance for Food Services

Canteen staff and teachers must undergo training by the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC) to ensure compliance with government food safety standards. Schools are also required to maintain inspection records and licenses to operate food services.

Addressing Allergies and Special Needs

Schools must take strict measures to protect students with food allergies:

  • Maintain updated allergy records accessible to canteen staff.
  • Clearly label allergens in food items.
  • Plan meals and events with allergy considerations in mind.
  • Conduct risk assessments and have emergency procedures for allergic reactions.
  • Parents are required to inform schools about their child’s allergies and provide necessary medications.

Student Involvement in Food Services

Students will have a say in improving school food services through feedback forms and other methods. This ensures their preferences and cultural needs are respected.

Promoting Long Term Healthy Habits

ADEK’s policy aims to foster a culture of nutritional awareness and sustainable eating habits within the school community. By enforcing these guidelines, schools can help reduce long-term health risks while creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

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