Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In an effort to combat childhood obesity and encourage healthier habits, the Mexican government has announced a nationwide ban on junk food sales in schools. Starting March 29, 2025, elementary, secondary, and higher education institutions will be prohibited from selling unhealthy snacks and sugary drinks on their premises.
The initiative is part of the “Healthy Living” guidelines introduced by Mario Delgado, head of the Ministry of Education, in October of last year. This strategy aligns with President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration’s commitment to improving student health through better nutrition and increased physical activity.
Article 15 of the General Education Law underscores the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles to prevent and address obesity. To enforce the ban, schools failing to comply will face fines ranging from 10,900 pesos to 109,000 pesos, with repeat offenders facing double penalties.
A comprehensive manual outlines the list of prohibited food items, including:
- Fried peanuts with added salt
- Flour fritters
- Donuts, cakes, and flans
- Hamburgers, hot dogs, and pizzas
- Boxed juices, nectars, and soft drinks
- French fries, pork rinds, and jerky
- Fruits in syrup and whole cream products
- Sweets, candies, and flavored milks
- Nachos with cheese and industrialized snacks
Statistics from the Ministry of Education reveal a pressing need for intervention, with 6 million children aged 5 to 11 classified as overweight or obese, rising to 10.4 million among 12 to 19-year-olds. Additionally, 98% of schools currently sell junk food, while 95% offer sugary drinks, and 79% provide soft drinks.
To ensure local adherence, the Jalisco Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Coprisjal) will begin inspections in Puerto Vallarta and surrounding areas following the regulation’s official implementation. Jaime Álvarez Zayas, head of the Eighth Health Region of the Jalisco Ministry of Health, emphasized the need to prevent students from consuming foods high in fats and carbohydrates.
President Sheinbaum has also mandated the installation of drinking fountains and the provision of healthier snack alternatives in schools. Meanwhile, parents are encouraged to support the initiative by ensuring their children’s packed lunches align with the new guidelines.
This nationwide effort reflects a serious commitment to tackling childhood obesity and fostering a culture of health and wellness among Mexico’s students.
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