Czech Ministry of Education Introduces Comprehensive Overhaul of School Meal Standards

PRAGUE — The Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MŠMT) has introduced significant reforms to school catering regulations, effective from September 1, 2025. These changes aim to modernize school meals, aligning them with current nutritional guidelines and enhancing flexibility for school kitchens. The reforms are the most substantial in over three decades and are being implemented gradually, with schools having until September 2026 to fully adapt.

The updated regulations focus on reducing the intake of salt, sugar, and processed foods, while increasing the inclusion of fresh vegetables, legumes, and whole grains in school menus. A notable change is the introduction of greater flexibility in menu planning, emphasizing quality over strict adherence to predefined tables. Additionally, schools are now required to allow students to bring their own meals under clearly defined conditions, responding to long-standing requests from parents and the public for more flexibility in student dining options.

To support these changes, MŠMT is providing schools with comprehensive methodological assistance, including detailed guides, FAQs, webinars, instructional videos, a series of seminars led by the authors of the new guidelines, and a team of “ambassadors”, experienced chefs and experts who will assist schools in implementing the new standards.

Minister Mikuláš Bek emphasized that the goal of the new regulations is to ensure that children in schools eat tasty, healthy meals that align with the latest nutritional knowledge. With nearly two million children passing through school canteens daily, this initiative presents a significant opportunity to help them develop a healthy relationship with food and their overall well-being.

Source: www.msmt.cz.