Ceuta Schools Embrace Halal-Only Menus, Sparking Dietary Debate

This contract has been awarded to the company Vivera Atlántico Mediterráneo, responsible for providing raw menus, other consumable goods and designing and planning the meals that will be prepared in the six public school establishments hosting scholarship students in the city. The company will provide healthy menus to 730 students in the six public schools of the autonomous city starting on September 11, the beginning of the 2025-2026 academic year, until August 31, 2026, according to El Faro de Ceuta.

The specifications stipulate that the awarded company must design balanced, varied and healthy menus, including a starter, a main course, a dessert (fruit or dairy product) and bread, in accordance with the principles of Law 17/2011 on food safety and nutrition and the recent Royal Decree 315/2025 of April 15, which regulates sustainable food in school establishments.

The contract requires the provider to serve only halal meat, i.e. certified as compliant with Islamic standards, and bans pork meat. The use of high-salt foods or seasonings, such as packaged soups, bouillon cubes, processed meats or pickled vegetables, is also prohibited. Olive oil is required for food preparation and meats and eggs must be fresh, of first quality and without additives. The same applies to vegetables and fruits.

The company will have to plan and review the menus monthly, adapting them to the age of the students and the recommendations of the nutritional guides of the Ministries of Health and Education. It will also have to provide special menus for allergies, intolerances, religious or ethical needs, in accordance with Article 10 of Royal Decree 315/2025. The objective is to promote responsible and sustainable eating habits, in line with the national strategy to combat childhood obesity and improve public health, according to the Ministry of Education.