Finland introduced its comprehensive school system in the 1970s to strengthen equality and give every child an equal opportunity to learn, regardless of their background, where they lived, or their family’s financial situation. The previous school system did not provide equal opportunities for all children Finland therefore moved to the comprehensive school system in stages between 1972 and 1977. The change took place in 1972 in the area that is now the city of Pargas and in 1976 in Turku.

A free hot meal had been part of compulsory school education system since 1948. With the comprehensive school reform, free school meals became a standard part of everyday school life for all comprehensive school pupils. School meals are therefore an important part of the story of equality, well-being, and community in Finnish schools.

This week, we are celebrating 50 years of comprehensive school in Finland. During the week, we will look at school food from different viewpoints. We will explore how school meals have evolved, how menus have changed, and how sustainability and responsibility have become increasingly important in school meals.

School food changes over time, but its importance remains

Finnish school meals are a unique part of our daily lives and welfare society. Free school meals have been a legal right since 1948, but they have changed in many ways during the 50 years of comprehensive school. When Finland completed its transition to the comprehensive school system in 1977, school meals became an established part of every school day. At the same time, school food became an even stronger part of education, well-being, and equality. At first one of the primary goals of school meals was to improve children’s nutrition. This is still an important reason for the school meal system, although Nutrion-related challenges have changed over the decades. In the early years, malnutrition was a concern. Today, the challenges often include irregular eating patterns, skipping meals, increased screen time, less physical activity, and less sleep.

Fifty years ago, school food was often simpler and resembled traditional home-cooked food. Soups and porridges were common, and most foods were eaten with a spoon. Menus were largely based on traditional, affordable, and nutritious foods that helped pupils stay active throughout the school day. Over time, the selection has become more varied. International flavors, vegetarian options, salad bars, and special dietary needs are now part of everyday school meals. The dining environment and our understanding of the meaning of meals have also changed. School food is not only about satisfying hunger. It also supports food education, learning, participation, and spending time together.

Today, school meals are guided by nutrition recommendations, the curriculum, and sustainable development goals. School meals aim to support the well-being of children and young people, healthy eating habits, and a responsible relationship with food. School meals also reflect the times in which we live. They show changes in Finnish food culture, nutrition knowledge, and society’s values.