This suspension will continue until the investigation results from authorities are available. The announcement was issued by both schools on the afternoon of 28/1, following a report by Dan Viet newspaper that highlighted concerns about expired food and buffalo meat allegedly "transformed" into fresh pork by a source in Hiep Phuoc commune, then illicitly supplied to schools.

Nguyen Huu Tuan, principal of Tan Quy Primary School in Tan Hung ward, stated that starting tomorrow, students will be dismissed at 10:30 for parents to pick them up for lunch at home. Afternoon classes will resume at 13:30.

For parents unable to arrange pickup, the school will provide a space for students to eat and rest if they bring their own lunch.

Concurrently, Tan Quy and Nguyen Van Huong Primary Schools have requested that the food supplier provide a detailed explanation regarding the origin, processing procedures, and storage of their goods.

A lunch portion for students at Tan Quy Primary School on 21/1. Photo: The school provided

Cao Thi Thien Phuc, Head of the Student Department at the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Education and Training (TP HCM DoET), confirmed that the department has requested reports and verification from the food supply company and other relevant parties. She added that strict action will be taken if any violations are found.

Last week, the TP HCM DoET issued its first specific regulations for managing semi-boarding meals and school hygiene. In addition to rules on safety, food origin, and kitchen procedures, the department specifically advised schools against reusing cooking oil multiple times or mixing old oil with new for "savings."

Styrofoam containers, single-use plastics, and recycled packaging of unknown origin are either restricted or prohibited from use in student meals.

Le Nguyen