Overview

• The Real Decreto de Comedores Escolares Saludables y Sostenibles officially came into force, with phased implementation starting next school year.
• Schools have 12 months to eliminate sugary drinks and industrial pastries, and two years to adapt supply contracts to meet the new standards.
• Nutritional guidelines limit meat consumption to three servings per week, with only one serving of red meat, and emphasize plant-based and seasonal foods.
• Vending machines must comply with strict calorie and sugar limits, and schools are required to provide free access to drinking water throughout the day.
• Critics from the meat and fishing industries argue the rules are restrictive, while advocacy groups call for stronger ecological targets and enforcement mechanisms.