Feature, 28 March 2012
Highlight on school meals
On Monday 26 March, Eskil Erlandsson participated in a round-table discussion on wholesome food and public meals arranged by the Swedish Embassy in Berlin.
Ilse Aigner, Michael Bäckman and Eskil Erlandsson.
Germany's Federal Minister of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection Ilse Aigner was invited along with several other actors in the area from both Sweden and Germany. Included in the discussion was a presentation of the Swedish model for school meals by representatives from the National Food Administrations newly established skills centre for public meals. They also explained the role they play in Swedish school meals. The round-table discussion exchanged experience in terms of meals served in schools, healthcare and social services, and most specifically, school food.
Ilse Aigner and Eskil Erlandsson.
Sweden's tradition of school meals is not shared by Germany which, up until now, has mainly had a half-day school system. More and more states are now discussing the introduction of an all-day school model, making the issue of school meals relevant. Mr Erlandsson extended an invitation to interested parties in Germany to visit Sweden for further exchange of experience in this area in conclusion of the round-table discussion. The evening ended with a typical Swedish school meal, prepared by Swedish school chef Michael Bäckman. Discussions at the dinner table were more informal and the mood was as pleasant as the food.
