School cafeterias offer a variety of balanced and nutritious meals to promote healthy eating habits among students. Menus include a mix of protein-rich options, vegetables and carbohydrates to provide the nutrients needed for children's growth and development. Here's an overview of the nutritional and educational benefits of the meals offered:

1. Protein sources

• Poultry (chicken): Many dishes feature chicken, which is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and tissue repair.
• Beef: The menu also includes beef, rich in iron and zinc, important minerals for cognitive function and energy production.
• Fish: The inclusion of fish (particularly in béchamel-style dishes) provides omega-3 fatty acids beneficial to brain health.
• Eggs: Present in certain dishes (such as the one with fish), eggs are a source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as B12.
• Pulses: Saffron dholl (lentils) provides vegetable protein and fiber, which are good for digestion and energy.

2. Vegetables and fiber

• Raw vegetables and salads: Every meal includes fresh vegetables (such as tomatoes, carrots, green beans), rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals, as well as fiber, essential for good digestion.
• Seasonal vegetables: Some meals are accompanied by seasonal salads, guaranteeing variety and a diversified intake of nutrients throughout the year.

3. Carbohydrates and energy

• Rice and Pilaf: Rice is a source of energetic carbohydrates, and when combined with dishes like beef daube, it provides a nourishing and balanced meal.
• Pasta: Pasta-based dishes like penne or spaghetti provide easily digestible carbohydrates, offering students energy throughout the day.
• Potatoes: Present in many dishes (such as beef stew), potatoes are a source of starchy, satiating carbohydrates.

4. Healthy fats

• Pesto: Some dishes include pesto (as with penne and sun-dried tomatoes), a source of heart-healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.

5. Variety and balance

• The menu offers a good mix of traditional dishes, such as cassoulet or spaghetti bolognaise, with international flavors (like Chinese-style chicken or beef strogonoff). This variety ensures that students discover diverse cuisines while maintaining nutritional balance.
• The combination of proteins, carbohydrates and vegetables in each dish ensures that students receive all the nutrients they need for growth, cognitive function and physical development.

Educational benefits of the menu

The school catering service not only provides healthy meals, it also plays an educational role:

• Promoting healthy eating habits: By offering balanced meals, students learn the importance of eating a variety of foods to support their health.
• Cultural openness: With dishes like Chinese-style chicken or beef strogonoff, students are exposed to cuisines from around the world, broadening their understanding of different food cultures.
• Conscious eating practice: The inclusion of fresh, colorful vegetables and legumes encourages students to appreciate plant-based foods and make thoughtful food choices.

Conclusion

Overall, the school menu is designed to ensure that students benefit from a balanced diet, supporting their physical and cognitive development. The balance of proteins, carbohydrates, vegetables and healthy fats helps provide them with the energy and nutrients they need to stay focused and active throughout the day, while offering a variety of dishes that expose them to different cuisines from around the world.