Turkey implements new health regulations for school canteens

In coordination with three ministries, new regulations have been implemented in Turkish school canteens to improve student nutrition. The updated rules prohibit the sale of carbonated drinks, chips, fried foods such as French fries, candies, creamy chocolates, and filled packaged snacks.

Specific restrictions have also been placed on cheese usage; processed melting cheese, commonly known as cream cheese, is now banned from toasts. Additionally, a requirement has been set to use at least 20 grams of cheese in every toast. Packaged products must not exceed 200 calories.

Regarding costs, the Istanbul Cantinciler Esnaf Odasi reported a price increase of approximately 6.2 percent for canteen items. For example, the price of a toast has risen from 90 to 100 lira. Other listed prices include simit at 30 lira, chicken doner at 145 lira, and hamburgers at 160 lira.