School Canteens Face Fines, Closures Under New Food Safety Rules
The school canteen regulations serve as a comprehensive framework governing the operation of cafeterias in both public and private schools. These regulations outline specific requirements related to facilities, staff qualifications, and food standards, along with oversight and inspection mechanisms, as well as a licensing and accountability system to ensure the provision of safe and nutritious food within the school environment. The regulations classify school canteens into three main categories based on the type of service provided: canteens that sell only packaged foods, those that offer ready-to-eat meals, and those equipped with kitchens for preparing hot meals. The regulations require adherence to Gulf standard specifications and technical regulations, particularly the ban on trans fats. They also outline guidelines for organizing daily meals based on basic food groups and determining appropriate calorie intake for each educational level. In addition, the regulations ban foods that are high in fat, sugar, and sodium, especially in breakfast and lunch meals served in private schools. Violations of these regulations may result in fines ranging from KD 500 to KD 3,000, with the possibility of canteen closure in cases of repeated offenses.
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