In Aek Phnum, Battambang, a primary school student eagerly grabs meatballs drenched in sweet sauce before class begins. This scene highlights an ongoing issue in schools across Cambodia: the prevalence of junk food despite official bans.
For years, the Ministry of Education has tried to push healthier eating by banning junk food and sugary drinks in schools. Most recently, they responded to Prime Minister Hun Manet’s call for tighter restrictions on energy drinks. At first glance, this looks like a firm step toward protecting children’s health, especially with rising non-communicable diseases. However, many schools still struggle to enforce these rules effectively.
The reality is stark. Schoolyards and surrounding streets teem with vendors selling soft drinks, instant noodles, and sugary snacks. These cheap and appealing options are hard for children—and even adults—to resist. Critics argue that without actual enforcement and educational support, these policies remain empty promises.
In rural areas, schools often lack the resources to monitor compliance. In one viral video, a student filled her water bottle with an energy drink, fooling her teacher. Meanwhile, a vendor in Phnom Penh became popular on TikTok for comically showcasing his junk food offerings.
This situation raises a pressing question: Is the government genuinely prioritizing children’s health or merely creating a facade of progress? It’s common for officials to issue guidelines that seem proactive but lack real plans for execution. Without proper funding, training for teachers, and support for vendors, these health measures remain just words on paper.
Many children, especially those from low-income families, have no choice but to opt for the cheapest available food. Furthermore, teaching kids about nutrition is vital. Simply telling them to avoid junk food won’t work unless they understand why it’s harmful. Bans won’t stop them from buying these items elsewhere.
There is hope on the horizon, however. The government is backing the School Feeding Transition Strategy to ensure better nutrition in schools by 2028. Cambodia has joined the School Meals Coalition, aiming for improved meal quality as well.
As of January 2025, 65% of Cambodia’s transition is complete, according to the Global Nutrition Report. This includes setting minimum nutrition standards and incorporating fortified rice in at least 10% of school meals.
Some schools are already making strides. Siem Reap’s Wat Bo Primary School offers healthier options like Khmer cakes and fresh fruits instead of sugary snacks.
Learning from other countries can help Cambodia’s efforts. For instance, Singapore’s Healthy Meals in Schools Program effectively collaborates with canteen vendors to reduce unhealthy ingredients while offering nutritious meals. Regular checks ensure compliance, and educational materials help students make better choices.
In Japan, the School Food Program merges nutrition education with meal provision. This approach not only feeds children but teaches them about healthy eating at the same time. By 2023, 40% of municipalities offered free lunches, aiming to expand access for low-income families.
These strategies show that while Cambodia’s ban on junk food is a good start, the real work lies in consistent implementation, education, and making healthy choices easy and appealing. Children deserve more than just another promise; they need real changes that lead to healthier lives.
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For years, the Ministry of Education has issued repeated directives banning junk food and sugary drinks in schools.
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