The Irish government is set to review and potentially overhaul its free hot school meals scheme following reports of poor food quality, limited choice, and waste, aiming to introduce more flexibility and healthier options for students.
The Cabinet is due to weigh changes to Ireland’s free hot school meals programme after two government-commissioned reviews found shortcomings in food quality, portion sizes and uptake.
Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary is expected to bring the findings to ministers and seek approval for reforms to the scheme, which now reaches about 3,200 schools and more than 550,000 children nationwide. According to RTÉ, roughly one in five hot meals , about 100,000 a day , is not eaten.
The reviews build on months of criticism over the programme’s design and delivery. Earlier this year, an Oireachtas committee heard complaints about highly processed foods, limited transparency around how meals are made and practical problems for schools handling delivery and packaging. A separate nutrition assessment cited by RTÉ concluded that high-fat, high-salt and high-sugar foods were often chosen over healthier alternatives when available.
That same review also raised concerns about fixed portion sizes, saying older pupils may not be getting enough food because the same serving is used across age groups. It examined 360 meals from 15 suppliers and included 54 school visits across the country.
The wider survey commissioned by Calleary painted a mixed picture. It drew responses from 747 schools, nearly 7,000 children, more than 86,000 parents and guardians, over 2,400 teachers and principals, and 47 suppliers. Three-quarters of children said they eat all, most or some of their meal, while 63% of teachers and principals described the scheme as generally positive.
At the same time, parents have repeatedly voiced concerns about variety and choice. A separate Fine Gael-commissioned survey in March found that 75% of respondents said their children did not enjoy the range of food on offer, while 80% said pupils would prefer a fresh cold lunch. Barnardos has also told an Oireachtas committee that some families support the idea of school meals but want fresher, simpler food and better involvement in menu planning.
The new review recommends a standard menu cycle, different meal sizes for different age groups, and adapted menus for special schools, special classes and children with dietary needs. It also suggests allowing pupils to choose either a hot or cold lunch on any day, arguing that flexibility could help cut waste.
The programme is being framed by the Government as a cost-of-living measure. RTÉ said it is estimated to save a family with two primary school children about €1,152 a year. The Programme for Government also commits to extending school meals to secondary schools over the lifetime of the Government, although Calleary has not yet set out a timetable.
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