The Surprising Diversity of School Meals: See How Schoolchildren Eat Around The World!

Food not only nourishes our bodies, but it also tells a story about a country's culture and traditions. Even at the school level, students from different parts of the world experience a wide range of culinary delights during their lunch breaks. In this article, we will explore the fascinating diversity of school meals around the world and discover how schoolchildren in different countries enjoy their daily lunches.

1. Japan: The Art of Bento Boxes

Ask any Japanese student about their school lunch, and they will likely mention the iconic bento box. These meticulously arranged meals are not just tasty but also visually appealing, making them a significant part of Japanese culture. Bento boxes often contain a variety of small portions, including rice, fish or meat, pickled vegetables, and sometimes even dessert. The emphasis on balance and presentation reflects the Japanese value of harmony in all aspects of life.

2. France: A Gourmet Adventure

France, known for its culinary expertise, extends this quality to its school meals as well. French schoolchildren are treated to multi-course meals resembling those found in high-end restaurants. Their lunches may include an appetizer, a main course with vegetables and proteins, a cheese platter, and a delectable dessert. The focus on providing freshly prepared and nutritious meals aims to educate students about French gastronomy and the importance of a balanced diet.

What’s for Lunch?: How Schoolchildren Eat Around the World

by Andrea Curtis(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20153 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	42 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

3. India: A Burst of Flavors

In India, school lunches are a celebration of the country's rich culinary heritage. A typical Indian school meal consists of chapatis (flatbread),rice, dal (lentils),a vegetable curry, and, occasionally, a sweet treat. The colorful and aromatic dishes reflect the diverse regional cuisines found across the country. Indian schoolchildren are encouraged to appreciate the flavors and spices that define their cultural identity.

4. Sweden: Sustainability and Health

Swedish school meals are renowned for their emphasis on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. Students are introduced to a wide range of nutrient-rich dishes, including whole grains, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Swedish schools often prioritize organic and locally produced foods, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility and promoting healthy eating habits from a young age.

5. South Korea: A Communal Feast

In South Korea, meals are not just about nourishment, but they also emphasize communal dining and socialization. Schoolchildren sit together and enjoy a variety of dishes, including rice, soup, vegetables, meat, and kimchi, a spicy fermented cabbage dish. The communal dining experience helps build relationships and instill values of respect and togetherness among Korean students.

As we've seen, school meals around the world are as diverse as the cultures they represent. From the visually stunning bento boxes in Japan to the gourmet adventures in France, each country offers a unique culinary experience. These meals not only nourish the body but also serve as a means to teach valuable lessons about cultural identity, sustainability, and healthy eating habits. By understanding and appreciating the variety of school meals, we can foster a global perspective and celebrate the richness of our global food heritage.

What’s for Lunch?: How Schoolchildren Eat Around the World

by Andrea Curtis(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20153 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	42 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Whether their school is under a banyan tree, in a dusty tent held up with poles or in a sturdy brick structure in the heart of a bustling city, all children need a healthy lunch to be able to learn and grow. Good food nourishes both our bodies and our brains. It's one of the basic building blocks of life.

As the world has become more interconnected, what we eat has become part of a huge global system. Food is now the biggest industry on Earth. Growing it, processing it, transporting it and selling it have a major impact on people and the planet. Unpack a school lunch, and you'll discover that food is connected to issues that matter to everyone and everything such as climate change, health and inequality.

In What's For Lunch Andrea Curtis reveals the variety and inequality to be found in the food consumed by young people in typical school lunches from thirteen countries around the world, including Japan, Kenya, Russia, United States and Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Afghanistan. In some countries, the meals are nutritious and well-balanced. In others they barely satisfy basic nutrition standards.

The book includes graphic colour photos of each of the lunches described, and stimulating sidebars that deal with various global food issues. It also provides messages for parents, teachers and kids about the significance of food, and more significantly, a list of ways in which children can reclaim school lunches for themselves by insisting on healthy, nutritious food.