Since September 2024, a prohibition on the sale of junk food in schools has been announced, set to come into effect by March 2025. This move aims to promote healthier lifestyle choices from a young age, recognizing the importance of diet in shaping the identity of each locality. The decision has sparked controversy, with various opinions for and against the measure.
## Commitment to healthy life
The incidence of overweight and obesity in Mexico exceeds 70%, making it a significant public health concern for the government and civil organizations. Addressing the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle and a diet dominated by junk food and low-nutritional value refreshments is crucial, especially from early childhood. For years, a healthy life strategy has been discussed and postponed, which includes the prohibition of preparing, distributing, or selling junk food in schools. With its definitive imposition scheduled for March, reactions from interested parties have been forthcoming.
These types of initiatives are not unique to Mexico; worldwide, countries have established measures to reduce junk food consumption, especially among children. They also promote healthy habits like physical activity and water consumption. The Mexican government is making coordinated efforts between the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, and other institutions to implement this comprehensive strategy. The goal is to serve children’s overall health, including their visual, oral, mental, and general well-being, through measures like weight and size records and the elimination of junk food stores.
## Junk food industry is legally protected
Given the implementation of such public policies, it’s expected that junk food producers and distributors will react against them. The market share occupied by children is significant for current and future demand, as enduring loyalty to brands of ultra-processed products often occurs during childhood. Major conglomerates like Coca Cola, Starbucks, and Maison Kayser are promoting demands against the prohibition, as are representatives of coffee shops and restaurants that distribute within schools and universities. The Autonomous Institute of Mexico (ITAM) has also filed amparos on behalf of the coffee shops operating on its campus.
Additionally, the business Jumex has requested that juices and nectars be exempt from the prohibition, considering them different from carbonated drinks and other ultra-processed products. They suggest placing warnings on products to acknowledge the potential damage each food can cause. However, some courts have rejected these demands, viewing this as a social interest issue that must be treated collectively. Activists are on alert, considering it “reasonable” for large junk food industries to defend their profits and interests.
For the government and NGOs, supporting measures that decrease the risks associated with junk food consumption is essential. The Ministry of Public Education remains vigilant, seeking to protect the general interest and the right to health in a comprehensive manner.
