WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that school meals and the surrounding environment play a key role in shaping children's eating habits, which in turn affects their academic success and health in the future.
Global Situation
Statistics show that the problem of obesity among children continues to worsen. At the same time, malnutrition remains a serious issue.“One in ten children and adolescents suffered from obesity last year, and 391 million children, or one in five, were overweight,” the WHO report states. It also mentions that over 800 million people, including one in six pregnant women, suffer from diabetes.
As of October 2025, 104 WHO member states are implementing healthy eating policies in schools, but only 48 countries have imposed restrictions on the advertising of products high in sugar, salt, and harmful fats, experts from the organization emphasize.
The school food environment has a significant impact on shaping eating habits for millions of children who spend most of their day there.
“Healthy eating in schools is an important aspect of disease prevention and the formation of a healthier generation,” added the head of WHO.
Nutrition Recommendations
WHO recommends increasing children's access to healthy foods and drinks while simultaneously reducing the availability of harmful ones. This includes reducing levels of sugar, trans fats, and salt and increasing the consumption of whole grains, fruits, nuts, and legumes.To support countries in implementing these recommendations, the World Health Organization is ready to provide technical assistance, share experiences, and develop cooperation.
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