UAE Schools Ban Sugary Snacks & Fizzy Drinks On Campus

Government schools across the UAE have introduced stricter rules on the food students are allowed to bring onto campus, banning sugary sweets, artificially coloured snacks, flavoured crisps and fizzy drinks. The measures apply to food brought from home as well as items exchanged or sold informally between students during the school day.
In messages sent to parents, school administrations said the decision was driven by growing concerns that certain snacks and drinks are negatively affecting student behaviour and academic performance. Schools noted that products containing artificial colours and additives have been linked to hyperactivity, reduced concentration and classroom disruption, with particular concern around brightly coloured drinks and processed snacks.
Administrators said unhealthy eating habits can have a direct impact on students’ daily focus, emotional regulation and ability to engage in lessons. They stressed that routine choices, such as what is packed in a lunchbox, play a role in students’ readiness to learn and overall wellbeing.
Parents were urged to check school bags daily, ensure meals are balanced and nutritious, and speak to children about not buying or sharing banned items at school.