Kuwait enforces new regulations for school canteens

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 28: The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN) on Wednesday announced the implementation of updated regulations for school canteens, under Ministerial Resolution No. 5 of 2025, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of operations and ensuring compliance with health and nutritional standards.

PAFN Spokesperson Dr. Shaima Al-Asfour told KUNA that the move reflects the authority’s ongoing role in protecting public health and promoting healthy lifestyles among school-aged children. The initiative also aligns with national development strategies under the "New Kuwait 2035" vision.

Dr. Al-Asfour explained that the updated regulations introduce the role of an investor in the operation and management of school canteens, forming a regulatory framework that upholds nutritional standards and improves the quality of food provided to students.

She emphasized that investor involvement does not replace government oversight but rather reinforces it. The authority will continue regular inspection visits to ensure canteens meet all approved health and safety requirements.

Approval of food items, she added, follows a detailed process beginning with inspections by a team of inspectors and nutritionists. This ensures that both the primary ingredients and the food establishments comply with health and nutritional criteria, consistent with Gulf and international food safety standards.

Dr. Al-Asfour noted that the school canteen development project is among Kuwait’s key developmental initiatives. It underscores the state’s commitment to combating childhood obesity and fostering healthy habits, contributing to a safe and holistic school environment for future generations.