The organization GIY is urging the Irish government to invest €3 million over four years to expand practical food education in primary schools. This initiative aims to combat the impact of ultra-processed foods and declining food literacy among children, with a focus on hands-on learning and reconnecting students with healthy eating habits and nature.
The organization GIY is advocating for the Irish government to significantly expand practical food education programs in schools, citing concerns over the prevalence of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and declining food literacy among children. GIY reports that UPFs constitute approximately 46% of the Irish diet, and children are increasingly disconnected from the origins and nature of healthy food. Currently, over 200 primary schools are on a waiting list for GIY's 'GROW at School' program, which is already active in about 650 schools nationwide. However, demand exceeds available funding and capacity. GIY is requesting a commitment of €3 million over four years to extend the program to 75% of Irish primary schools, estimating the cost at around €7 per child. This investment is seen as a small fraction of the Department of Social Protection's school meals budget, with the potential to foster lifelong healthy eating habits. GIY founder Mick Kelly emphasized that while Ireland invests in school meals, it underinvests in food understanding. Evidence suggests that children involved in growing food are more likely to consume fruits and vegetables and develop healthier eating patterns. The program also offers broader wellbeing benefits, including teamwork, responsibility, and self-regulation, particularly in disadvantaged communities. GIY proposes using the funding to scale the program rapidly through trained facilitators, providing schools with growing resources, workshops, and curriculum support, and urges the government to include dedicated funding in Budget 2027.
Expanding practical food education in schools can lead to improved long-term health outcomes for children by fostering healthier eating habits and a better understanding of nutrition, potentially reducing future healthcare costs associated with diet-related illnesses.