Jordan implements school food restrictions following obesity survey

A school health survey conducted by Jordan’s Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education, supported by the World Health Organization, has revealed significant weight issues among students aged 13 to 17. The findings show that 32.9% of students in this age group are either overweight (20.8%) or obese (12.1%). Notably, the rate of overweight students is higher in private schools (42.5%) compared to public schools (30.3%).

In response, Health Minister Dr. Ibrahim Al-Badour has issued directives to improve the nutritional environment in schools. New regulations for school canteens include banning flavored chips, all types of soft drinks, energy drinks, and juices containing artificial dyes. The Ministry of Health has also called for stricter oversight through technical committees involving the Jordan Food and Drug Administration to conduct periodic inspections.

To combat physical inactivity, the Ministry is urging schools to ensure regular physical education classes, integrate movement exercises into morning assemblies and breaks, and increase student participation in sports. The survey also noted that only 12% of students in this demographic engage in at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity.