Key Developments in Mexico’s School Health Initiative
Mario Delgado Carrillo, the Secretary of Public Education (SEP) in Mexico, announced that 86% of schools across the country have ceased selling junk food in their cooperatives, according to an SEP survey. This milestone underscores the successful implementation of the “Vive saludable, vive feliz” strategy, championed by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.
The Importance of Healthy School Environments
Delgado Carrillo emphasized that the well-being of students is a top priority. He noted that schools are not only places for learning but also environments where lifelong habits are formed. The secretary acknowledged the collective efforts of teachers, parents, and educational authorities in making nutritious food options available in public schools.
Regulations and Capacity Building
In response to legislators during a recent appearance before the House of Representatives’ Education Committee, Delgado Carrillo reminded lawmakers about the Guidelines for preparing, distributing, and selling food and beverages within all schools in the National Educational System. These regulations ensure that food and beverage options meet proper nutritional standards, promoting healthy lifestyles among the school community.
The strategy aims to provide students with an environment free from ultra-processed foods and ensure access to nutritious options that support their growth and learning. It includes training for teachers, administrative staff, parents, and guardians to foster a culture of healthy eating.
Implementation and Impact
Delgado Carrillo reported that the sale of junk food in schools was prohibited starting March. The SEP has conducted online training for nearly 2 million individuals on preparing and distributing healthy meals in basic education institutions. Additionally, the SEP has distributed around 300,000 copies of the “Manual for those who prepare, distribute, and sell food in primary and secondary public schools” across Mexico’s 32 federal entities.
Delgado Carrillo highlighted that these actions reflect the Mexican government’s commitment to comprehensive education: “The New Mexican School not only imparts knowledge but also safeguards health and encourages community cohesion. Our goal is for children to grow healthier, happier, and with better opportunities.”
Positive Responses from Students and Families
In Mexico City, specifically in Iztapalapa, parents and guardians have welcomed the positive changes. Patricia Hernandez, a primary school parent, expressed: “Now my daughter buys water and fruit at the cooperative; previously, she always came back with chips or sodas. This gives us more confidence that her health is being cared for at school.”
Students have also shared their experiences. Mariana López, a secondary school student in Iztapalapa, said: “At first, we thought there wouldn’t be anything delicious, but now there are tortas, salads, and even fruit gelatin. I feel more energized to participate in sports.”
José Luis Ramírez, a bachillerato student, stated: “We stopped spending on junk food at school, and now there are more affordable and healthy options. It helps us focus better in class. Before, it was common for students to bring junk food from outside, but now they ask for apples, bananas, jicama, or granola. It’s a noticeable shift in habits every day at the secondary level.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main achievement mentioned in this article? 86% of schools in Mexico have stopped selling junk food, according to the SEP survey.
- Who is Mario Delgado Carrillo? He is the Secretary of Public Education (SEP) in Mexico.
- What is the “Vive saludable, vive feliz” strategy? It’s a school health initiative championed by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, focusing on providing nutritious food options and promoting healthy lifestyles.
- What regulations have been implemented to support this initiative? The Guidelines for preparing, distributing, and selling food and beverages within schools ensure proper nutritional standards.
- What training programs have been conducted as part of this initiative? The SEP has trained nearly 2 million individuals on preparing and distributing healthy meals in basic education institutions.
- How have students and families responded to these changes? Parents and guardians have expressed confidence in the improved health environment at schools. Students have reported feeling more energized and focused, with a noticeable shift towards healthier food choices.
