Schools across Abu Dhabi have reaffirmed a list of nine food categories that students are not allowed to bring from home, as part of efforts to protect children’s health, reduce obesity and chronic diseases, and support better concentration and academic performance.
Banned items include processed meats such as sausages, burgers and mortadella, instant noodles, sweets, packaged chocolate bars and chocolate spreads due to their high levels of fat, sugar and salt. Peanuts and peanut products are prohibited to prevent allergic reactions, while cream-filled cakes, doughnuts, carbonated drinks, energy beverages, processed juices, and fried snacks such as fries and potato chips are also not permitted.
As healthier alternatives, school canteens offer 85 nutritious options, including baked pastries, manakish, healthy sandwiches, fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, 100 per cent natural juices and healthier snacks. School administrations stressed that the initiative supports students’ overall wellbeing and long-term healthy habits, urging parents to cooperate by providing balanced, nutritious meals that enhance children’s energy, focus and growth.
