Mechelen has launched a program providing healthy breakfast carts in 20 primary schools, aimed at enhancing students’ nutrition and overall health. Education Councillor Sabe De Graf plans for citywide access by 2026 to ensure all children receive substantial morning meals, reports 24brussels.
The initiative began in September 2022 as a pilot project in selected schools and currently operates in 12 schools, with plans to expand to 20 by the end of the year. The program aims to combat food insecurity among students and promote healthier eating habits.
“It took the students a little while to get used to it at first, but now they’re eager to use it. Right now, the fruit is even more popular than the cereal bars,”
says principal Saskia Van Aerschot.
Mechelen’s Plans for Breakfast Carts by 2026
De Puzzel Primary School serves as a notable example, having implemented a breakfast cart for a full year. The cart offers a variety of healthy options for students at any time, addressing hunger that often arises later in the day. School staff emphasize this service’s importance for both students and parents.
“It is reassuring for teachers and parents that students can take a healthy snack, such as a banana, whenever they need it,”
noted a staff member.
“Even in privileged families, there is sometimes no time to have breakfast.”
added Van Aerschot.
The breakfast carts, available to all students, aim to alleviate hunger-related issues encountered by many children, particularly in families with constrained morning schedules.
“Unfortunately, we have many children who arrive at school hungry. However, there are also privileged families who have little time for breakfast in the morning. The breakfast cart is there for them too,”
a school spokesperson stated.
Van Aerschot highlighted that research consistently shows a decline in academic performance when students are hungry. By 2026, Councillor De Graf aims for every primary school child in Mechelen to receive a nutritious breakfast daily.
“Next year, our goal is that all students have access to nutritious options every morning,”
explained De Graf.
“The project will be funded by the Flemish government and the city of Mechelen,”
De Graf confirmed.
The breakfast cart initiative in Mechelen is set to significantly expand by the end of December 2025, with approximately 20 schools expected to utilize the program. As the city prepares for its expansion into additional schools, officials aim to secure food access for all students seven days a week.