Comparison of Regulatory Instruments for Product Sales in Secondary Schools and Universities in Mexico, Latin American Countries, and OECD Members

Abstract

Background: Due to the rising incidence and prevalence of obesity and the issuance of WHO and OECD recommendations, various countries have developed regulatory instruments to standardize food offerings in educational institutions. Objective: Compare the Mexican instrument for sales of prepared and processed food products in secondary schools and universities with other international regulatory instruments, and reflect on its application and practicality. Materials and Methods: For this document revision, instruments from 20 countries were collected for various education levels, of which were selected those that apply to secondary school and universities. Results: Diverse instruments were identified with various levels of regulation, which dictate nutritional criteria and other dietary elements. At the secondary school level, 17 countries regulate sales, while at the university level only 3 countries do so. Likewise, there are gradual increases in operability and requirements among countries. In the case of Mexico, benchmarks for the applicability, monitoring, and evaluation of the regulatory tool(s) were outlined. Conclusion: Policies influence the availability and accessibility of foods and drinks; as such, compliance and close monitoring would have a positive impact on the consumption of food products and dietary patterns.