From 1 September, a new school nutrition standard came into effect in Kazakhstan. However, school canteen tenants claim that with current funding levels, providing children with healthy and balanced meals is becoming increasingly difficult.
According to Informburo.kz, the cost of a single school meal has still not been approved in a number of regions. Meanwhile, food prices continue to rise, and the costs of preparing meals, paying staff and maintaining facilities are increasing.
"I consider it important to look at annual indexation. Staff salaries and current repairs need to be taken into account. Workers are genuinely interested in ensuring children receive safe, nutritious and high-quality food," said entrepreneur Diana Sukhanova.
Industry representatives note that a systematic approach to funding is necessary for the sustainable operation of the new standard.
For its part, the Chamber of Entrepreneurs does not believe that price instability will lead to a mass exodus of businesses from the school food sector, although it acknowledges certain risks.
"There is no reason to worry that entrepreneurs will refuse en masse. Everything is taken into account, and many are satisfied with it. The only risk is that food prices rise every year," said Batyrlan Taimaganbetov, director of the Atameken branch in Satpayev.
Entrepreneurs fear that attempts to keep the cost of meals at the previous level could affect portion sizes. Sanitary services stress that such actions are unacceptable.
"The portion, the weight of the dish, and the substitution of products are regulated by sanitary rules and nutrition standards. Reducing portions is strictly prohibited," emphasised Damira Nuran, chief expert of the Sanitary and Epidemiological Control Committee.
Quality control of school meals remains the responsibility of the sanitary services. It is also noted that no specific inspections related to the transition to the new menu have yet been planned.
A final decision on the cost of school meals is expected in the near future. The ability to provide children with high-quality and nutritious food under the new standard will directly depend on this.