Dearborn Public Schools issued an apology after more than 200 students were mistakenly served pork at a middle school during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month when Muslims fast and avoid consuming pork.

The incident occurred at a school in Dearborn, Michigan, a city with a significant Muslim population. School officials acknowledged the error and expressed regret for the mistake that violated dietary restrictions observed by many students during the religious observance.

Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months in Islam, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and follow strict dietary guidelines. Pork consumption is prohibited in Islamic dietary law at all times, making the serving error particularly concerning for affected families.

Dearborn Public Schools has not yet released details about how the error occurred or what steps will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The district serves a diverse student body with many Muslim families who rely on school meal programs to provide religiously compliant food options.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges school districts face in accommodating diverse dietary needs and religious requirements in their food service programs.