The new guidelines from the Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP) to prevent the sale of junk food in schools at all levels will grant the state the authority to rescind contracts of stores and cooperatives selling this type of food, explained the state education secretary, Martha Elena Soto.
Soto Obregón pointed out that there was previously a national guideline limiting the sale of ultra-processed foods in educational institutions, but with no consequences for sellers; however, with the new regulations, all educational authorities will be able to take measures against cafeterias that do not comply with this regulation.
In relation to this, the secretary mentioned: "That guideline already existed, today there is a relaunch and there are consequences; previously, in the previous guideline, there were no specific consequences regarding this." In this way, the aim is for stores and cooperatives within educational centers to adjust to the new provisions, prioritizing healthy foods for students.
Martha Elena Soto indicated that the new regulation not only involves actions from the authorities but also calls on parents to join this initiative. Although the regulation focuses on the food sold in schools, Soto emphasized that there will be no intervention in children's lunchboxes. Therefore, the importance of sending healthy food for school lunch is emphasized.
The guidelines of the "Healthy Life in Schools" program will come into effect on March 29, 2025, at all educational levels, from preschool to higher education. This change aims to promote healthier eating habits among the student population and foster a school environment conducive to the well-being and comprehensive development of students.
