Türkiye Bans Unhealthy Foods in School Canteens

Türkiye has introduced new rules for food sold in school canteens, restricting products considered unsuitable for a healthy school environment and promoting better eating habits among children.

The measures came into effect on September 14, 2026, as part of a joint initiative prepared by the Ministries of Agriculture and Forestry, Education, and Health.

675 Products Approved for School Canteens

Under the new system, school canteens will initially be allowed to sell 675 approved products that meet specific requirements for sugar, salt and fat content.

Approved products will carry a special healthy food logo, making it easier for students and parents to identify items that comply with the new standards.

Which Foods Are Banned?

The new rules prohibit the sale of several types of food and drinks in school canteens, including:

• 🚫 Energy drinks
• 🚫 Carbonated and flavored drinks
• 🚫 Fried foods
• 🚫 Chips
• 🚫 Chocolate and sweets
• 🚫 Cream- or chocolate-filled pastries
• 🚫 Syrup-based pastries and desserts
• 🚫 Products containing artificial sweeteners

These products will no longer be permitted for sale through school canteens under the new rules.

What Can Students Buy?

The list of permitted products focuses on simpler foods and drinks, including:

• 🍎 Seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables
• 🥛 Milk, yogurt and ayran
• 🧀 Cheese and eggs
• 🍞 Wholegrain bread
• 💧 Water and mineral water
• 🍬 Sugar-free chewing gum

Dried fruit and unsalted nuts may also be sold, but portions are limited to 30 grams. Freshly squeezed juice can be sold in portions of no more than 250 ml.

Focus on Healthier Eating Habits

Nutrition experts involved in the initiative have emphasized that whole fruits are preferable to fruit juice as part of a balanced diet. They have also highlighted the importance of limiting highly processed and salty snack products.

Officials say that healthy eating habits should begin at home, while schools can support these habits by offering children more suitable food choices during the school day.

New Approach to Food Standards

Türkiye has recently been strengthening its approach to food standards and nutrition. The new school canteen rules are intended to support healthier choices among children and bring national practices closer to international health recommendations.

A campaign promoting wholegrain bread will also begin in the province of Konya, with plans to expand the initiative to other parts of Türkiye.

The new school food system covers around 18 million students across Türkiye and places greater emphasis on the nutritional quality of products available at schools.