Mexico’s Efforts to Overcome Obesity

日経新聞によると、メキシコ政府は、肥満対策の一環として、学校内でカロリーが高く栄養価が低いジャンクフードの販売を禁止すると発表しました。同国は「肥満大国」として知られており、学校で食育を進めることで肥満体国の汚名返上を目指しています。

【English】

Mexico is taking significant steps to address its obesity crisis, one of which is the prohibition of high-calorie, low-nutrition junk food sales in schools. This initiative aims to ensure a healthier lifestyle for children and promote better eating habits. The government is also emphasizing education on healthy dietary choices alongside the ban.

Unlike Japan, where balanced and nutritious school lunches are the norm, it is common for Mexican students to rely on snacks purchased within the school. Unfortunately, many of these snacks consist of high-calorie foods, such as sugary beverages and chips, which contribute to poor nutrition.

In contrast, Japan’s school meal program is known for its focus on nutritional balance, providing students with well-rounded meals that contribute to better health outcomes.

With approximately 75% of Mexican adults classified as obese or overweight, the country is striving to shed its reputation as an obese nation. The goal is to promote healthier eating habits and create a healthier population.

The importance of school lunches can be inferred from the fact that Mexico has one of the highest obesity rates in the world, while the obesity rate among Japanese children is remarkably low even compared to other developed countries.

In my view, by looking at models like Japan’s school lunch system, Mexico may discover new strategies to ensure that future generations are healthier and better educated about nutrition.