Spain Enforces New Regulations for Healthy Food in Schools and Healthcare Facilities

The Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption, and the 2030 Agenda in Spain has announced a significant initiative aimed at promoting healthier eating habits among the population, particularly within schools and healthcare facilities. During an event on Monday, Minister Pablo Bustinduy outlined the details of a royal decree that mandates the availability of healthy food options in hospitals, health centers, and nursing homes, a move expected to transform dietary practices in these vital sectors. The decree stipulates that vending machines in both public and private facilities must prioritize healthy products. Specifically, at least 80% of the items sold in these machines must meet strict health criteria that include options like water, milk, fresh fruits, unsalted nuts, 100% fruit juices, whole grain breads, and low-sugar yogurts. In an effort to combat the rise of unhealthy eating, items classified as ultraprocessed foods—those loaded with additives and high levels of saturated fats, sugars, or salt—will be strategically displaced within these machines, relegated to less prominent positions that are less likely to catch a consumer's eye. The initiative is part of a larger movement to address the alarming increase of ultraprocessed food consumption in Spain, which has tripled over the past two decades, surging from 11% to 32%. Minister Bustinduy highlighted the importance of ensuring that access to nutritious food is not a privilege but a right, stating, "From public institutions, we must develop measures so that the right to eat well is not a privilege." Moreover, the decree places an emphasis on protecting children, with ultraprocessed foods banned from all menus catering to children and adolescents in hospital settings. However, exceptions will exist for those who wish to choose ultraprocessed options in cafeterias open to the public. Additional measures include the introduction of free drinking water points in these facilities to reduce costs associated with purchasing water. In vending machines offering hot beverages, drinks will default to zero sugar content, allowing consumers to opt for added sugar only if they desire, with a cap set at 5 grams. In conjunction with these efforts, the government is also set to regulate advertising directed towards children concerning ultraprocessed foods, recognizing that children are exposed to an average of 11 such advertisements daily. Upcoming initiatives aim to ensure that school cafeterias serve five healthy meals a week, accompanied by alternative menus for children with ethical or religious dietary needs. This comprehensive strategy combines public health objectives with social responsibility, aiming to create a healthier future for Spain’s younger generations while promoting improved eating habits across various institutions. The government’s proactive stance highlights the critical need for measures that facilitate access to nutritious food in a context where unhealthy food options have become so pervasive. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2