New school-meal guidance sharply limits sweets and ultra-processed foods
The 2026 guidance for school meals calls for sweet desserts only once a month, water as the standard drink and the removal of products such as nuggets and processed fish portions.
Archived after its publication day. Search retains this original briefing for background and accountability.
Archived 12 September 2026This is national menu guidance, not a guarantee that every canteen changes on the same day. Families should check the menu and allergy process at the school actually serving the child.
- Sweet desserts should be limited to once a month under the new guidance.
- Ultra-processed fried or breaded products are excluded from recommended menus.
- Fruit variety, water and adequate eating time are part of the same approach.
The aim is a healthier ordinary meal
The document prepared by EDUQA with the Directorate-General of Health moves the routine menu towards soup, a balanced main dish, fruit and water. It also recommends at least 30 minutes to eat, excluding time spent waiting in the queue.
A recommendation can still require local procurement, menu and contract changes. The published weekly menu remains the practical source for what a particular school plans to serve.
Medical diets need a separate check
The general menu does not replace an allergy, coeliac, diabetes or other clinically required plan. Parents should use the school's documented process and provide the evidence requested for an adapted meal.
Ask how substitutions are managed and where allergens are published. A healthier general standard does not make an individual meal automatically safe for every child.
What you can do now.
- 01
Read the school's current menu and allergen information.
- 02
Use the formal process for a medically required diet.
- 03
Raise repeated menu or queue-time concerns with the school or responsible municipality.
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