Chamber of Food Engineers: school meal safety is a priority in Northern Cyprus

The Chamber of Food Engineers (Gıda Mühendisleri Odası, GMO), part of the Union of Turkish Cypriot Engineers and Architects (KTMMOB), stated on September 10, 2025, that safety and balanced nutrition in schools in Northern Cyprus must be the highest priority. In a written statement, GMO representative Oymen emphasized that every school meal directly affects the health and future of children.

GMO listed key elements ensuring food safety: proper infrastructure and hygiene in cafeterias, uninterrupted cold chain and correct storage conditions for perishable products (meat, dairy, fruits, and vegetables), compliance with rules during preparation and serving, prevention of cross-contamination, as well as regular staff training and involvement of experts for supervision.

The organization points out that cafeterias, buffets, and kitchens must be equipped with modern equipment, and sanitary procedures should be implemented and documented. According to GMO, involving food engineers in the process allows continuous scientific and technical monitoring of meal quality.

For residents of Northern Cyprus, this means: schools must strengthen requirements for suppliers and review storage and preparation conditions; parents can request information about hygiene and staff training. GMO has stated its readiness to provide consultation and support in raising school meal standards, noting that access to safe food is not a choice but a right.