MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico has launched a new ban on junk food in schools. This move aims to combat the country’s growing obesity and diabetes crisis.
The ban targets common school snacks like sugary drinks, packaged chips, and pork rinds. The country’s Education Ministry announced, “Farewell, junk food!” on social media and urged parents to contribute by preparing healthy meals.
Mario Delgado, the public health secretary, emphasized, “One of the core principles of the new Mexican school system is healthy living.” Many parents are backing the initiative, seeing it as a positive step for their children.
Mexico’s efforts are part of a larger global struggle against rising obesity rates. For instance, in the United States, recent changes in food policies are also aiming to tackle this issue, with officials targeting ultra-processed foods that contribute to obesity.
Under the new policy, any food or drink labeled with a black warning logo for high salt, sugar, calories, or fat cannot be sold in schools. This labeling system has been in place since 2020.
The law will also encourage schools to offer healthier options like bean tacos and plain water. However, while most agree that the change is necessary, enforcement may prove difficult. One-third of children in Mexico are already classified as overweight or obese, according to government data.
While the ban aims to promote healthier eating habits, challenges remain. Issues like unregulated junk food sales outside school premises pose hurdles for the initiative. April Geraldine Rose de León, a child therapist, noted, “It will be tough, but the long-term benefits could be significant.”
This initiative reflects a broader awakening to the dangers of unhealthy eating, particularly among children. Mexico’s obesity epidemic has reached alarming levels, with UNICEF labeling it an emergency. Experts note that sugary and processed foods make up 40% of children’s daily calorie intake.
Parents, like Aurora Martínez, are hopeful. She shared how her daughter’s school plans to replace candy with fruits and vegetables, believing it will lead to better choices.
As countries around the world grapple with similar challenges, Mexico’s new policy is being closely observed. Will this initiative reshape the nation’s food culture for future generations? Only time will tell, but many are optimistic about the potential impact on children’s health.
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Source linkMexico, Mexico City, Abril Geraldine Rose de Len, Food safety, Obesity, Children, Epidemics, General news, World news, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Business, Health, Claudia Sheinbaum, Education, Mario Delgado
