Government schools across the United Arab Emirates have introduced stricter guidelines on the types of food students are allowed to bring to campus, banning sugary sweets, fizzy drinks, and snacks containing artificial colouring as part of efforts to encourage healthier lifestyles and improve focus in classrooms.
According to Emarat Al Youm, school administrations notified parents that heavily processed and sugar-laden snacks can lead to hyperactivity, reduced concentration, and disruptive behaviour, ultimately affecting academic performance.
School officials highlighted concerns about products with artificial colours and additives, saying such ingredients may influence children’s attention spans and overall activity levels during lessons.
Parents have been urged to prepare balanced and nutritious lunchboxes and to discourage children from buying, selling, or sharing restricted items during school hours.
Administrations stressed that cooperation between schools and families is vital to fostering a healthier learning environment that enhances students’ well-being, concentration, and academic achievement.
