School meals in Thuringia are getting better - and more expensive
In Thuringia, the prices for school meals continue to rise. In some cases, it is becoming increasingly difficult for families to bear these costs, said Alexandra Lienig, project manager at the Thuringia School Meals Network. "It is therefore imperative that funding options are discussed and put in place." While the price per average portion in Thuringia was still €3.24 in autumn 2021, this figure had risen to €3.75 in spring 2022. In some cases, prices of up to five euros were being charged.
Among other things, the improvement of school meals, which has been regulated by the School Financing Act since 2022, is supported by projects of the state of Thuringia. There is also a lot of movement on this topic in schools and kindergartens, explained Lienig as well as Beatrice Schletzke, spokesperson for the networking center for daycare meals. A joint effort by all those involved is needed to improve school meals in the long term.
According to Lienig, lunchtime meals are offered almost everywhere in general education schools in Thuringia. According to Schletzke, daycare centers even offer around 99 percent.
In Thuringia, the prices for kindergarten meals might also be on the rise, following the trend of school meals. Families with multiple children in schools and kindergartens might find it particularly challenging to manage these increased costs. To ensure that all children can benefit from nutritious meals, it's crucial to explore funding solutions for affordable school and kindergarten meals.
Source: www.dpa.com
