The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new global guidelines emphasizing that what children eat at school is a key determinant of their lifelong health, amid rising concerns over childhood obesity.
For the first time, the number of school-aged children and adolescents living with obesity has surpassed those who are underweight. In 2025, an estimated 188 million young people were affected by obesity, highlighting a growing public health crisis.
With around 466 million children receiving school meals daily, WHO experts caution that many of these meals remain high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, contributing to poor dietary habits and long-term health risks.“What children eat at school shapes their health for life,” a WHO spokesperson said.
“The school food environment—from the cafeteria to the classroom—must actively support better nutrition.”The guidelines recommend a whole-school approach, urging countries to implement and enforce clear nutrition standards so that healthy food becomes the default, easy choice.
WHO also calls on parents, communities, and policymakers to support strong school meal policies, promote nutritious lunches and snacks, and advocate for healthier school food environments.“Healthy schools do more than just feed children,” the guidelines note.
“They help children learn better today and live healthier tomorrow.”The framework positions schools as critical partners in reversing the obesity epidemic and fostering a healthier future for the next generation.
