School meal reform likely to be delayed until 2027

Proposed changes to school catering rules, originally set to take effect this September, could be postponed until September 2027, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš said after Friday’s meeting on the reform.

The decree would update 30-year-old rules governing school menus. Babiš said no final decision has been made and further negotiations are planned with all parties concerned.

Health Minister Adam Vojtěch acknowledged that adapting to the changes may not be easy since the aim was not only to change the menu but make it attractive enough for children to consume, moreover on limited finances.

Under the proposal, school canteens should serve fewer potatoes and limit sweetened beverages. Average meat portions would be reduced, while fish and legumes would appear more frequently on menus.