In a positive move toward prioritizing children’s health, school cafeterias in the UAE are now offering a variety of nutritious meals, ranging from berry chia puddings to baked chicken with oat meatballs and lasagna made from butternut squash and cottage cheese. Despite occasional appearances of items like cheese croissants or Margherita pizza, there is a concerted effort to ensure that healthy options are available on a daily basis.
The nutritional content of school meals in the UAE is closely monitored by authorities in each emirate, with set standards and regulations guiding meal providers. Notably, commercial fryers and deep fat fryers have been eliminated from kitchens, reflecting a commitment to offering healthier alternatives.
Providers like Slices, which caters to Gems Education schools, prioritize nutritional balance and employ nutritionists to address various dietary requirements. The focus is on a holistic approach to ensure that children have access to well-rounded meals, incorporating carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables.
Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable shift in attitudes towards healthy school meals. Kanika Hughes, co-founder, chef, and nutritionist of Leela’s Lunches, notes that the perception of healthy eating has evolved, moving away from viewing it as a diet or punishment. Emphasizing the importance of children’s dietary choices as building blocks for their future, she highlights the acceptance of healthier meals in recent years.
Despite the progress, some parents believe that more needs to be done, particularly in monitoring lunches brought from home. While schools are offering sensible portion sizes and healthier meal options, there are concerns about the types of foods some children bring from home. Parents advocate for increased control over packed lunches, aiming to restrict the inclusion of unhealthy snacks like burgers or Nutella sandwiches.
In addressing these concerns, schools, educators, and parents collectively acknowledge the need for ongoing efforts to promote healthier eating habits among children. The focus on nutritious school meals aligns with broader concerns about the rising rates of childhood obesity in the UAE and the region, emphasizing the importance of making healthier options available to students.
