New regulations in Poland will require school cafeterias to serve at least one fully plant-based meal each week starting September 2026, impacting over 6.8 million students.
Starting in September 2026, schools across Poland will implement significant changes to their lunch menus, marking the largest revision in a decade. According to a proposal from the Ministry of Health dated February 16, 2026, school cafeterias will be required to introduce at least one completely plant-based meal per week. This initiative is expected to affect over 6.8 million students across nearly 36,000 schools and kindergartens, revolutionizing the dietary offerings in Polish educational institutions.
The new regulations dictate a clear weekly menu for school lunches: two days per week will feature fresh meat dishes (with a plant-based alternative), one day will be dedicated to fish (also with a plant-based option), and one day will allow for a flexible choice among plant-based, pasta, or fish dishes. Additionally, soups served at schools must be prepared with vegetable broths at least twice a week. This shift towards plant-based meals is positioned as a measure not only for health benefits but also for promoting sustainable eating habits among the younger population.
This approach reflects a growing awareness of dietary impacts on children's health and the environment within Poland, aligning with broader European trends towards healthier and more sustainable school meals. The initiative is likely to spark debates regarding dietary preferences, nutrition, and the role of schools in shaping eating habits, making it a pivotal development in Polish education and health policy.
