Puerto Vallarta Says "No" To Junk Food.

In a decisive decision seeking to protect the health of Vallarta's children and youth, all junk food packages were removed from school cooperatives and convenience stores within public schools in Puerto Vallarta today. This measure reaffirms that the sale of ultra-processed products with low nutritional value is illegal in the city's schools, in compliance not only with state and federal regulations, but also with a growing social demand to ensure healthy environments for new generations.

What is junk food and where does it come from?

Junk food is a popular term that refers to foods high in calories, saturated fat, added sugars, sodium, and chemical additives, but with little or no nutritional value. Although these products began to gain popularity in the United States in the 1950s with the rise of fast food, their international expansion was consolidated in the 1980s and 1990s, when large transnational corporations began to massively introduce them to Latin American markets.

In Mexico, their consumption increased rapidly, influenced by advertising, the urban lifestyle, and availability in convenience stores and, sadly, in schools. Fried snacks, soft drinks, industrial cookies, candy, and pastries became a regular part of school lunches.

Consequences of Regular Junk Food Consumption

Numerous studies have shown that frequent consumption of these products has serious health consequences, especially when it begins in childhood:

● Childhood obesity: Mexico ranks among the world's leading obesity rates in children and adolescents.

● Type 2 diabetes: This chronic disease has increased significantly in young people, linked to excess sugar and fat in the diet.

● Digestive disorders and metabolic problems: The digestive system is affected by a lack of fiber and excess chemicals.

● Attention deficit and poor academic performance: High concentrations of sugar and additives can disrupt mood and concentration.

● Early cardiovascular risks: Increases in blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides occur at increasingly younger ages.

Puerto Vallarta makes a firm decision

With the removal of these products from Puerto Vallarta's public schools, a firm step is being taken toward protecting students' health. The measure not only seeks to improve nutrition at schools, but also to promote nutritional education and informed decision-making from an early age.

Local authorities, school administrators, and parents have participated in this action, which, while seemingly drastic, responds to a major public health problem.

And now, what can be sold in school convenience stores?

Instead of chips, soda, or candy, school convenience stores must offer healthy and nutritious options, such as:

● Chopped fruit, vegetable salads, and natural juices with no added sugar.

● Drinking water as the main beverage.

● Whole-wheat bread, natural yogurt, sugar-free cereals, nuts, and seeds.

● Simple and balanced homemade meals, such as bean cakes, whole-grain sandwiches, or tuna and vegetable toast.

The Cultural Challenge and the Importance of Example

Eliminating junk food from schools is not enough if it is not accompanied by a cultural transformation, where mothers, fathers, caregivers, and teachers also adopt healthy habits at home and set an example. Food education must be included as part of the educational program, teaching children to read labels, identify harmful ingredients, and value natural foods.

A Call for Collective Commitment

The ban on junk food in Puerto Vallarta schools sends a powerful message: the health of the new generations comes before commercial interests. This decision can mark the beginning of a broader transformation if all sectors of the community are committed.

Puerto Vallarta, as a vibrant tourist city, can also become a national example of a healthy and responsible city, promoting school environments free of ultra-processed products and fostering decent, natural, and accessible food for all.