On April 8-9, 2024, the Latvian Rural Forum, in collaboration with the Vidzeme Planning Region, participated in an experience exchange trip to Estonia as part of the Cities2030 project.
Key topics discussed included:
- Organization of procurement for school and kindergarten catering services
- Financial planning for school and kindergarten catering
- Menu planning, including increasing healthy meals and reducing sugar
- Increasing the share of locally produced products
- Reducing food waste in schools and kindergartens
During the visit, we explored Tartu Variku School, Kambja Preschool “Mesimumm,” and Puhja School. We were introduced to their dining systems and tasted the daily meals alongside students. Each area has different procurement approaches, but common trends include incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and local products, reducing sugar, meat, and dairy consumption, and allowing children to choose their meals with buffet-style dining.
The head of “Mesimumm” shared how to teach children to eat more vegetables by allowing them to touch, smell, and taste each ingredient. Creative names for dishes, like “Shrek Salad,” and eating outdoors also improved vegetable consumption.
Elva mayor Priit Color shared the city’s experience in reducing food waste by setting up a food-sharing cabinet next to the municipality building. Uneaten meals from schools and kindergartens are placed in a refrigerator in this cabinet, and information about available food is promptly posted in a special Facebook group. The food is quickly taken after being posted.
Tartu City emphasized increasing the proportion of organic products in school meals, currently at 50-80%. Their procurement ensures at least two types of hot meals daily, mixed salads, and at least two types of vegetables, along with 70g of fresh berries or 100g of fresh vegetables. Twice a week, fish dishes are included.
Representatives from local action groups, Vidzeme Planning Region, procurement specialists, and school and preschool representatives joined the exchange trip.
We thank Tartumaine Toit for supporting the visit’s program planning.
This trip is part of the #CITIES2030 project.
#cities2030 #food2030 #horizon2030
