A call to readjust the Israeli school feeding program

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nutrition Science
• Food Systems

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted food and nutrition security for children in Israel.
• Existing school feeding programs require critical reassessment to meet evolving needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for an urgent readjustment of the Israeli school feeding program.
• To propose a universal, inclusive, and resilient school feeding model.

Main Methods:

• Policy analysis and expert recommendations.
• Review of the United States National School Lunch Program.
• Proposal of a holistic Food System Approach and One Health framework.

Main Results:

• Children's active participation in food selection, preparation, and waste management enhances health literacy and resilience.
• Integrating school feeding with family food baskets improves household food security.
• Universal programs prevent stigmatization and ensure equitable access.

Conclusions:

• An upgraded, universal Israeli School Feeding Program is essential for food and nutrition security.
• Emergency preparedness, response, and resilience must be integral components.
• Adoption of a Food Systems framework and One Health Approach is recommended.