With one day for the legislature to end, the 2020-24 legislature passed a bill that bans sugary drinks and processed foods from being sold at school cafeterias. The bill still requires Senate approval. The landmark bill is aimed at improving children’s nutrition.
The bill, sponsored by Deputy Nelsa Soraya Suárez (PRM-Santiago), mandates that school cafeterias offer only healthy food options. “The foods consumed in schools must fulfill their role of providing the necessary nutrients for the physical and intellectual development of children,” the bill states.
The drat law requires that schools prepare their own meals on-site to ensure quality control and freshness.
Schools will be encouraged to purchase food products from local farmers to support the local economy and promote traditional Dominican food.
Likewise, the bill imposes penalties on suppliers who engage in fraudulent activities or provide substandard products.
The bill establishes penalties for violations. School administrators who misuse funds allocated for school meals will face disciplinary action.
The legislation is part of a growing global movement to combat childhood obesity and promote healthier eating habits. By restricting access to unhealthy foods in schools, lawmakers hope to create a healthier environment for students and set them on a path to lifelong wellness.
The Dominican Republic has been grappling with rising rates of childhood obesity and related health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. Advocates have long argued that schools play a critical role in shaping children’s eating habits.
If the bill gets to pass in the next legislature, the Dominican Republic would be able to join a growing number of countries that have implemented policies to improve the nutritional quality of school meals.
For years, the strong lobby of soft drink manufacturers has kept these beverages low cost, stimulating consumption.
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Diario Libre
25 July 2024