Vietnam Ministry of Education proposes new school meal regulations

The Ministry of Education and Training is seeking public feedback on a draft circular to standardize the organization of boarding, semi-boarding, and canteen services in preschools and general education institutions. The draft aims to clarify the responsibilities of relevant agencies, schools, service providers, and families to ensure food safety and nutritional quality.

Key provisions include requiring schools to publicly disclose daily or weekly menus and update them promptly when changes occur. Menus must follow Ministry of Health nutritional guidelines and be appropriate for students' ages and energy needs. The draft also outlines criteria for selecting service providers, focusing on capacity, food safety conditions, and traceability.

Under the proposal, parents or guardians are granted a role in supervising school meals and participating in nutritional education. However, the draft emphasizes that parental supervision and feedback must be conducted within legal rights and responsibilities, ensuring they do not obstruct the school's organizational processes or educational activities.