Kazakhstan cracks down on junk food in schools—but loopholes remain
Kazakhstan has introduced updated nutrition standards for schoolchildren at the start of the new academic year. The rules ban unhealthy foods like fast food, sausages, and sugary snacks. However, parents report that some banned items are still being sold in schools. The new standards require school meals to include a vegetable salad, a hot dish, a dairy product, a drink, and fruit. Salt and sugar levels in prepared meals have been significantly reduced. Schools without kitchens must provide one-time meals for younger students in grades 1 to 4.
Hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, and chips were already prohibited under earlier sanitary rules, not just the latest update. Suppliers are chosen through competitive bidding and must meet strict hygiene and documentation requirements. Schools can take legal action if they find the food quality unsatisfactory.
Parent councils and tasting commissions are responsible for inspecting school kitchens and menus. Despite these measures, some parents claim their children still have access to banned items like sweet pastries and mini-pizzas.
As of March 2026, no public records exist on how the new standards have affected children's health or school meal quality in different regions. Neither parents nor officials have documented specific improvements or ongoing problems. The updated nutrition rules aim to improve children's diets by removing unhealthy options. Schools and suppliers must follow strict selection and hygiene processes. Yet, enforcement remains inconsistent, with reports of banned foods still reaching students.
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