Concerns over children’s food safety have surfaced after parents complained about burgers and shawarma being sold to school students in unhygienic conditions, prompting regulatory action in Makhachkala, Russia.
Complaints over unhealthy and unsanitary sales
Parents alleged that fast food items were being sold in school hallways rather than designated cafeterias, often without packaging or hygiene safeguards. The issue came to light after Shamil Khadulaev, head of the Dagestan Public Monitoring Commission, shared a complaint on his Telegram channel highlighting the growing commercialisation of school food spaces.
According to the complaint, students were being sold burgers priced at around 100 roubles, with parents questioning why school cafeterias were being rented out to private operators instead of remaining under school control.
Official inspection confirms violations
Following the public outcry, Rospotrebnadzor conducted an inspection at Makhachkala Gymnasium No. 13. Officials confirmed multiple violations, including the sale of food items prohibited in school meals.
A total of 124 prepared food items across 11 categories were confiscated. Authorities noted the absence of quality and safety documentation, sale of food in unauthorised areas such as corridors, and lack of an approved food inventory list. An administrative case has been registered against the entrepreneur operating the outlet.
Public reaction and wider concerns
Parents and community members expressed anger online, questioning how such practices were allowed inside schools. Some called for inspections at other institutions, including Lyceum No. 39, which was also reported to have a privately run cafeteria.
Media outlet Chernovik shared video footage showing uncovered food items laid out on tables, reinforcing hygiene concerns.
A recurring issue
The controversy has revived scrutiny of school meal systems in Dagestan. Previous investigations by the Dagestan Ministry of Education and Science revealed irregularities, including alleged embezzlement of food meant for school lunches, with losses running into millions of roubles.
Call for stricter oversight
Parents are now demanding tighter regulation, transparency in cafeteria operations, and prioritisation of children’s health over commercial interests, stressing that schools must remain safe spaces for students.