A new health regulation is set to change food sold in Greek school canteens, restricting processed products as the Health Ministry seeks to tackle childhood obesity and encourage healthier habits.
The decision, signed by Alternate Health Minister Eirini Agapidaki, specifies which products can be sold and which are excluded.
What can be sold
Canteens may offer fresh fruit and vegetables, dried fruit without added sugar, and fruit salads or compotes in natural juice.
Dairy products include fresh milk, kefir, ayran, yoghurt, rice pudding and custard-style desserts, provided they contain no added sugar and meet specified fat limits.
Permitted bakery products and snacks include wholegrain bread rings, rusks, cereal bars, raisin bread and grape-must biscuits.
Sesame bars, halva and sugar-free plant-based desserts may also be offered. Nuts are allowed only in lower and upper secondary schools.
Sandwiches, toasted sandwiches and salads may contain wholemeal bread, fresh vegetables, Greek cheeses, boiled chicken or turkey, tuna and egg.
Fats are limited to olive oil, olive paste or soft margarine. Cereals and pulses may be added to salads.
Pies and pizzas without processed meats are allowed, with dough made using only olive oil or other vegetable oils.
Permitted drinks include bottled water, natural juices without added sugar and plant-based drinks. Herbal infusions are permitted only in secondary education. Coffee is exclusively for school staff.
Products excluded
The regulation prohibits cured and processed meats, including ham, bacon, pariza, mortadella and sausages.
Prepared meat products such as gyros, schnitzel, burgers and kebabs are also excluded.
Other prohibited products include pies and pizzas containing processed meats, processed cheese, crisps, puffed savoury snacks, chocolate, ice cream, sweets and energy drinks.
Cakes, tsoureki, croissants, soft drinks and products such as ketchup, mayonnaise and chocolate spreads are also excluded.
Additional restrictions for younger children
To reduce choking risks, primary-school and kindergarten canteens may not sell small round fruits such as grapes and cherries or nuts. Nuts remain permitted only in secondary education.
The regulation aims to create a healthier, safer food environment for pupils at all levels and reinforce the importance of good nutrition at school.
The original report also refers readers to the relevant Government Gazette decision.
