School Lunch Menus Adapt to Rising Student Allergies, New Regulations
Vigo, Spain – School lunch programs in Vigo and surrounding areas are undergoing adjustments to accommodate a growing number of student allergies and a new food service decree, according to Pilar Ramos, a technician overseeing school dining halls managed by Foanpas. The changes range from eliminating specific ingredients like kiwi due to severe reactions to increased scrutiny of food sourcing and planning.
The need for adaptation stems from a documented rise in childhood allergies, prompting schools to prioritize student safety alongside nutritional needs. While parents have varying levels of concern regarding dietary restrictions, schools are focused on providing balanced meals that adhere to legal standards and offer suggestions for complementary home dinners. These adjustments come as Foanpas prepares to re-bid contracts for school catering services, aligning with the requirements of a recently updated food service decree.
Ramos explained that in some cases, ingredients have been removed entirely to prevent cross-contamination. “There was a child with a very strong allergy and the mere presence of this fruit affected him,so we chose another,” she stated,highlighting the severity of some reactions.
Beyond ingredient selection, Foanpas conducts monthly inspections of catering companies, verifying product quality and transportation methods. The focus is shifting towards incorporating more fresh, seasonal produce, fish, and meat-a move that, while beneficial, increases costs. “Now we seek to offer fresh and seasonal products, more fish, more meat and all without losing quality. This makes the menus more expensive, of course, so we have to review everything carefully to comply with food law without prices rising too much,” Ramos said.
The upcoming tender for catering contracts will reflect the new decree, though Ramos notes that foanpas was already largely compliant with existing regulations. the changes aim to ensure all 26 schools in the Vigo area provide safe, nutritious meals for students with diverse dietary needs.