Children and young people in Poland are now guaranteed access to plant-based school meals for the first time, with new regulations applying to over 6.8 million students in nearly 36 thousand educational institutions starting September 1, 2026. Poland’s Ministry of Health finalized and signed the regulation in February, ensuring that students have access to plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy, with at least one plant-based meal per week.

The regulations stipulate that schools must serve an entirely plant-based dish, ideally made with legumes, at least once per week, in addition to providing plant alternatives to animal-based proteins. Schools may serve meat twice per week and fish once per week, as well as one flexible meal that can be plant or fish-based weekly, with at least two plant-based soup options served. The initiative aims to not only support student health but also educate them on making responsible food choices for themselves and the environment, while also promoting a more sustainable and balanced diet.