Shifts in School Meal Policies

This chapter examines recent changes to school meal programs in England, where some children are now required to pay for meals that were previously free. It contrasts this with global initiatives, including expansions in Rwanda, Scotland, and New Zealand, and discusses the potential benefits of providing free school meals as a vital social safety net, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic. The chapter highlights challenges in funding and implementation, illustrating the complexities of establishing equitable access to nutrition among different nations.