New school nutrition bill bans sugary drinks and processed foods

Santo Domingo.- On Wednesday, the Chamber of Deputies approved a school food and nutrition bill in its second reading, prohibiting the sale of sugary drinks and processed foods in school cafeterias. The bill, authored by Deputy Nelsa Soraya Suárez, aims to promote healthier eating habits among students by banning the promotion, sale, or distribution of ultra-processed products with high sugar or sodium content, as well as sugary drinks, in school cafeterias.

Article 31 of the bill emphasizes that “food consumed in schools must provide the necessary nutrients for the physical and intellectual development of children.” The law mandates that food served to children in schools must be prepared on school premises. Educational authorities are responsible for ensuring that the necessary physical facilities are in place to implement this provision.

The bill aims to guarantee better control, supply, and quality of school food, while also preventing any risk of food contamination. Until all school kitchens are fully installed, external food providers will continue to offer their services.

Article 57 of the initiative prioritizes the purchase of agricultural products from local sources where the schools are located. The bill aims to support family farming and preserve food culture through collaboration with local producers.