New regulation for school canteens: Products without 'School Food' logo cannot be sold

A comprehensive legislative amendment proposal regarding food safety is expected to be submitted to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in May. The regulation will lead to significant changes in many food businesses, including markets and delicatessens, primarily school canteens. The biggest change will be directed at the food students consume at school.

ONLY APPROVED PRODUCTS CAN BE SOLD

According to a report by Türkiye Gazetesi, the new rules, which cover preschools, primary schools, and middle schools, will only allow the sale of food that meets the standards set by the Ministry of Health. Many products that have been on canteen shelves for years will be removed from sale for this reason.

‘SCHOOL FOOD’ LOGO BECOMES MANDATORY

With the new practice, no product without a 'school food' logo will be made available to students. This step aims to keep children away from food and beverages that are particularly high in sugar and fat. In fact, this logo practice was initiated by the Ministry in 2019 but was postponed five times for various reasons. Now, it is becoming mandatory.

COLOR-CODED WARNING SYSTEM ON PACKAGING

A new labeling system will be introduced for packaged products. Color-coded warning signs indicating the starch-based sugar and total fat ratios of foods will be presented to the consumer on the products. Thus, it will be possible for consumers to evaluate the nutritional values of products more quickly and easily.

MANDATORY SUPPLEMENT REQUIREMENT FOR FLOURS

Another remarkable regulation is aimed at bread flour. Vitamin and mineral supplementation will be mandatory for flours with a whole wheat ratio of less than 40 percent. In this way, it is aimed to prevent nutritional deficiencies frequently encountered in society.

HEAVY FINES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE

Deterrent sanctions are also envisaged for those who do not comply with the rules. A fine of 500 thousand TL will be imposed on those who do not fulfill the flour enrichment obligation, and a fine of 200 thousand TL will be imposed on those who do not have the necessary warning labels on packaging. In addition, products found to be in violation of the rules may be confiscated and their ownership may be transferred to the public.

STRICT MONITORING OF WATER INSPECTIONS

It was also stated that water safety inspections would be increased with the legislative proposal. In case of recurrence of violations regarding water inspected by the Ministry of Health within one year, new sanctions will be introduced in addition to the current penalties. It is emphasized that all these moves aim to combat childhood obesity, raise healthy generations in society, and inform the consumer correctly.

News Source: 12punto