24 September 2023 11:03 pm Views - 405
The Public Health Inspectors' (PHI) Union today said they will resort to strict inspections on school canteens as there is an increase in the spread of communicable diseases among children, PHI union President Upul Rohana said.
Addressing the media he said that in order to implement the canteen policy in the country and in order to regulate the spread of communicable diseases and children's eating patterns, the PHI Union will inspect school canteens and provide the necessary instructions.
They have taken a decision to raise awareness among the canteen owners in this regard with the help of school officials, he said.
It has been decided to carry out regular monitoring of canteens in schools and to take legal action over any shortcomings in the future.
"There is an increase in the spreading of communicable diseases around the country and therefore the canteen owners and various food sales centres for children were advised to provide only healthy foods for them.
"We recently released a circular outlining specific guidelines for the foods sold in school canteens. These guidelines highlight which foods are safe and suitable for school children, ensuring their well-being. We have also taken the necessary steps to inform both the school authorities and the individuals responsible for managing the canteens about these guidelines", he said.
Rohana also said that while there may be challenges in taking legal action under the Food Act against those who disregard the guidelines, any situation that pose threats to the health of the school children can still be addressed legally.
He assured that the school canteens will be closely monitored and regulated to ensure the well-being of the students. (Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama)