Jordan bans sale of chips in school canteens to promote healthier eating habits among students

Jordan's Ministry of Health has enacted a ban on selling chips in school canteens, aiming to encourage healthier eating among students. The decision, issued by Health Minister Ibrahim Al Badour under the Public Health Law and its amendments, comes into effect immediately upon publication. This measure is part of wider efforts to regulate food sold in school canteens and improve health standards for products offered to pupils.

Safwan Dababneh, director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Directorate at the Health Ministry, reported that 33% of children in Jordan are overweight or obese, a concerning trend that has worsened compared to previous years. This rise in obesity could put children at risk of chronic diseases later in life. To combat this issue, the ministry has intensified inspections of school canteens in light of the increasing obesity rates among children.

The ban on chips aligns with other countries' initiatives, such as Saudi Arabia's prohibition of 30 food items in school canteens, including chips and cold tea, and the UAE's establishment of penalties for foods exceeding salt and sugar limits.