She noted that the sanitary and epidemiological regulations specify products that are prohibited for sale in school cafeterias.
Such products include: deep-fried foods, natural coffee, tonic and energy drinks, alcohol, soda, chewing gum, lollipops, and many others.
According to Kushubakova, there was previously a ban on the sale of alcoholic and tobacco products within a radius of 100 meters from schools; however, this document has been revoked. A new project is currently being developed, which is under review by the Cabinet of Ministers. It proposes restrictions on the sale of harmful products, such as chips, sugary soda, and instant noodles, within a radius of 100 meters from educational institutions.
Parents, who should monitor their children's diets, agree with the sanitary doctor. She urged them to pay attention to their children's nutrition.
“It is impossible to always be next to the child and explain to them which products are harmful. Many parents are not ready to invest even small amounts in school meals, but they willingly give money for pocket expenses. Often, children spend more than 200 soms in stores on harmful products. I recommend limiting or even not giving pocket money at all, so they eat better in the school cafeteria, where only healthy options are sold, such as baked or steamed foods,” she added.
Kushubakova emphasized that improper nutrition can lead not only to food poisoning but also to long-term consequences.
“Problems may arise in five to six or even ten years, and then they will be irreversible. A child may develop a stomach ulcer, chronic gastritis, allergies, dermatitis, and other diseases. Therefore, it is very important for parents to explain to children the importance of proper nutrition,” concluded Maria Kushubakova.
