While parents can ensure children follow a healthy diet at home, they have no control over what they consume from school canteens.
Luckily a government department is now giving parents some ease of mind.
Until now, the regulations were a grey area but now the Food Control Department of Dubai Municipality and the Dubai Health Authority have published a guidance manual which aims to improve the standard of food being served in canteens across the emirate.
The manual also includes food safety and hygiene regulations and requirements and contains examples of healthy school meals...
Here are the 11 foods canteens will NOT be serving from now on
Soft drinks
Energy drinks
Fruit drinks
Milk and yogurt with synthetic flavors
All types of chewing gum and candies
Bofak
Sweets composed of excessive sugar and colorants
Plain chocolate
Food items containing monosodium glutamate (found naturally in tomatoes, cheese and other foods. MSG is used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer)
High-fat food
Chips
Congratulation!