School canteens and cafeterias
The school cafeteria: a near-mythological topic that crystallizes many frustrations :
Children who eat nothing but bread at lunchtime, deafening noise, cooks sometimes without proper training, sauces with poetic names but a sticky texture meant to keep reheated meat from drying out after being delivered from industrial central kitchens in cold vans... In the end, an average of 120g per meal tray is thrown away each day and many children return to their school benches with low energy, difficulties to concentrate and memorise . They nibble unhealthy snacks which make them hyperactive and jeapordize their general health
But also, lunch at the canteen often is a wonderful moment of discovery, sharing, and bonding for the students.
Our children have brains, but they also have bodies.
No matter their age, we all know that their academic performance, health, and emotional balance are closely linked to their nutrition. Yet, since they don’t eat all their meals at home, ensuring optimal nutrition quickly becomes a monumental challenge. Let’s remember that almost all students go to the cafeteria for at least part of their schooling. About 75% eat there at least once a week, and 60% at least four times a week – everyday when they are boarding.
The school lunch as a practical option
However, as with nursing homes, those who manage and those who pay for the cafeteria are not the ones who eat there. So, parents rely on the often enigmatic reports from their children.
Most of the time, we sign them up because we don’t really have a choice. The menus displayed in front of the school or on an app seem to offer delicious and sometimes exotic dishes, varied menus, tasty sauces, logos like "High Environmental Value", "sustainable fishing", "organic", "Meat from France", and "Quality Label". That reassures us, and we think that if our little one says the food isn’t good, maybe he/she is just a bit picky. After all, he / she complains about everything at home too.
We do not dwell too much on the details, for fear that the school administration might suggest exclusion from the cafeteria if we complain. And anyway, we know that schools must follow national guidelines. These are constantly evolving with advances in medical research.
The 2025 new school lunches recommandations
Thus, in 2025, an international consensus has drawn a new food and lifestyle pyramid for students to promote their well-being and development.
This new tool is based on global epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and international meta-analyses. Whether students eat at home or at school, what are the key points from these new dietary guidelines?
In 2025 it is strongly recommended to:
· Consume 3 seafood products per week (including 2 oily fish) + 3 servings of legumes + 3 to 6 eggs per week for a good intake of amino acids and proteins.
· Limit red meat consumption to 2 servings per week and avoid processed meats (maximum 1 serving per week).
· Limit salt by replacing it with herbs or spices.
· Consume 3 to 4 servings of dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese, and other fermented dairy products) for their high biological value proteins, minerals (calcium, phosphorus...), and vitamins to support gut flora and bone health.
· Include cereals (preferably whole grains), fruits, and vegetables in every main meal to cover energy needs (physical and intellectual), vitamin, mineral, and fibres needs.
· Eat raw vegetables daily, favouring whole fruits over fruit juices (which have a very high Glycemic Index).
· Consume 30 to 45g of unsalted nuts daily (almonds, pistachios, walnuts…).
· For desserts, fresh fruit, nuts, and fermented dairy products (like kefir) are recommended substitutes for cakes and sweets during the week.
· Drink 1.5 to 2 litres of water daily, and avoid sugary drinks.
· Engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity (moderate to vigorous intensity) every day. For emotional stability, physical activity—whether individual or group-based—should focus on pleasure and respect.
· Maintain a proper sleep schedule (10–13 hours/day for children and 8–10 hours/day for teenagers).
· Take the time to share most meals as a family.
Research from INRAE shows that menus following these recommendations provide satisfactory nutritional intake.
French canteens vs British school lunches
While in France (or in French institutions abroad), the emphasis is placed on a balanced diet with traditional dishes and a structured mealtime experience, British cafeterias tend to offer more flexibility, favouring quicker and more informal options (like sandwiches and wraps).
Especially in England, lunch breaks are shorter (20 to 25 minutes). However, the shorter the meal duration, the more children focus on eating the main dish and filling foods (like pasta, rice, or potatoes). They don’t have time for salady starters, side vegetables, or fruits.
What are the consequences of shorter lunch times ?
On average, children who eat in less than 20 minutes consume:
· 15% fewer starters,
· 18% fewer vegetables,
· 12% less milk (in younger children),
compared to those who have a 30-minute break.
This partially explains why, in England, one-third of children under 13 are overweight or obese.
Home or school lunch ...the pleasure element is key
Cafeteria or not, it is the concept of pleasure that should guide the decision.
Any effort invested in a child’s nutrition will have a major impact on their health, energy, academic performances, concentration—and therefore their future.
Giving them enough time to eat in a setting that suits them (at home or with school friends) allows them to eat without pressure, to be more in tune with their bodily sensations, and to optimize digestion.
Balanced nutrition is a long-term process.
Lunch should provide the energy and rest needed to learn and reach their full potential.
