School meals in our words: Choosing our future

Across 13 countries, 1,235 children shared their experiences with school meals through peer-led research. Their voices reveal that school meals are vital, not just for nourishment, but for learning, health, and a sense of belonging. Children highlighted both strengths and areas for improvement, calling for better food quality, hygiene, variety, and opportunities to be heard. 

They see school meals as more than just food, they are a reason to attend school and a foundation for their future. This research shows that children are not passive recipients but active contributors whose insights can help shape more effective and inclusive school meal programmes.

Report also available in French, Spanish and Portuguese