The Abu Dhabi school food rules 2026 tighten what children may eat at school and during events. The Department of Education and Knowledge has issued a “Red List” that covers canteens, packed lunches and celebrations. This matters because enforcement is now stricter, and parents will feel the change every school day.
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Policy Shift Towards Healthier School Meals
The policy aims to cut children’s exposure to foods high in sugar, salt, additives and “empty” calories. Schools must apply the same standards to canteens, packed lunches and school events. ADEK says the rules support healthier growth, safer eating environments and long-term habits.
- Reduce obesity and diet-related illness.
- Limit ultra-processed and additive-heavy items.
- Manage allergens and choking hazards.
- Encourage whole-food, balanced meals.
Banned food categories
The banned list targets several clear categories. Parents should treat it as a practical checklist.
Drinks students cannot bring or buy
- Soft drinks and fizzy beverages.
- Energy drinks and many sports drinks.
- Fruit drinks made from syrup.
- Hot or iced coffee and tea.
- Sugar-sweetened juices.
Sweets and sugary snacks
- Candy, marshmallows, lollipops and chewing gum.
- Most chocolates (dark chocolate exceptions may apply).
- Ice creams, slushies and other processed frozen desserts.
- Flavoured milk and sweetened yoghurts.
Fried, salty and ultra-processed items
- Chicken nuggets, fried chicken, samosas and deep-fried snacks.
- Potato chips, corn puffs and similar packaged crisps.
- Processed meats such as hot dogs and sausages.
- Foods with artificial colours, MSG or hydrogenated fats.
Allergy, safety and cultural considerations
- Certain nuts and high-risk choking foods are restricted.
- Unpasteurised products and alcohol-derived ingredients are banned.
- Schools will factor in cultural sensitivity when advising families.
ADEK Issues New School Food Standards
Schools must update canteen menus, revise supplier contracts and share clear guidance with parents. They also must train staff to monitor compliance and log breaches. Compliance dates align with the 2025/26 academic year.
Are lunchboxes being checked?
Yes. Schools are carrying out random lunchbox checks and routine canteen audits. Repeat breaches lead to parent notifications and corrective steps. Several private and public schools have issued circulars explaining the checks and timelines. Expect clearer labelling and menu transparency from suppliers.
Food delivery, events and celebrations
Many schools ban third-party food deliveries during school hours. Parents who forget lunches are usually asked to drop off food at reception rather than use delivery apps. Celebrations are covered, too — sugary treats and fizzy drinks are discouraged at parties.
Food that is permitted
ADEK and school guides recommend simple, appealing options:
- Drinks: plain water, unsweetened infused water and approved isotonic drinks for sports.
- Mains: grilled proteins, baked or steamed options, legumes, whole-grain sandwiches and wraps.
- Snacks: fresh fruit, plain yoghurt (unsweetened), whole-grain baked snacks and small portions of dark chocolate.
- Desserts: fruit salads, date-based treats and homemade energy bites with no added sugar.
Canteens must reformulate menus and update supply chains to meet new limits on sugar, salt and additives. Many schools are putting suppliers through re-tendering and asking for ingredient disclosure. Food safety rules and nutrition education are being paired together to create a consistent food culture.
