Everything you need to know about school feeding.

Proper primary school child nutrition fosters their development. School nutrition is one of the key factors that influence the growth and development of a child. Primary school age, which lasts from 7 to 10 years, is characterized by an increase in psychological and mental load on children. During this period, the child's body is actively growing, so they especially need a balanced and healthy nutrition.


Diet for primary grade students should consist of three meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hot meals stimulate the production of digestive juices, are better absorbed and give a feeling of satiety. The organization of hot meals at school has an impact on the performance of students, increases their intellectual and physical activity, prevents disease and promotes healthy eating habits. Proper organization of school feeding includes the following aspects: the use of scientifically justified technology of food preparation; development of a menu inclusive of the child’s organism needs and the digestibility of nutrients; daily menu planning, which is 20-25% of the daily calorie intake. Energy expenditure in this age period is 2100 calories per day. Cooks must also observe the basic principles of healthy eating and exclude any food products and meals that can negatively affect the health of children from the diet.

The basic principles of organizing healthy school feeding, which must be strictly observed, include the following:
  • adequacy: schoolchildren’s diet and nutritional intake corresponds to their energy consumption;
  • variety: using food commodities from the main five food groups;
  • safety: observance of all sanitary requirements in the food production area, during transportation, storage, preparation and distribution of meals;
  • regularity: school children need to eat four meals a day, one of which should be organized at school, e.g. a second breakfast or lunch, with a hot meal provided;
  • the duration of the meal is 20-30 minutes;
  • enjoyment: providing properly served, beautifully presented and delicious food.
Compliance with all rules and standards in the organization of school feeding is a guarantee of a healthy and successful future for our children.