A dynamic risk management system would mandate daily inspections, weekly risk analysis and monthly summary reports, with all documentation archived for regulatory review.

　　The regulation comes with a "negative list" which explicitly bans high-risk foods from kindergarten kitchens. Prohibited items include nitrites, bulk edible oils, bulk salt, cold meats and ingredients known to pose food poisoning risks such as green beans, wild mushrooms and sprouted potatoes.

　　To enhance transparency and oversight, the draft encourages kindergartens to implement "smart kitchen" systems with real-time video monitoring covering the entire food preparation process, from receiving and storing ingredients to cooking, distribution and dining.

　　A mandatory meal accompaniment system would require kindergarten principals or other responsible officials to eat with children at every meal and maintain detailed records.

　　The draft regulation also stipulates that food must be consumed within two hours of preparation. For meals distributed outside designated food handling areas, specialized sealed and insulated equipment would be required, accompanied by thorough cleaning and disinfection after each use.

　　In a separate but related development, four central government institutions — education, emergency management, market regulation and public security authorities — jointly announced on March 25 a comprehensive campaign to strengthen safety management across all primary and secondary schools and kindergartens in 2026.

　　The initiative includes measures addressing a wide range of student safety concerns, including mental health services, bullying prevention, traffic safety, cybersecurity and enhanced emergency response capabilities, alongside stricter food safety enforcement.

　　zoushuo@chinadaily.com.cn