From policy to plate: strengthening implementation of Canada's national school food policy.

Abstract

Canada's newly released National School Food Policy (NSFP) and its associated federal funding commitments mark significant progress toward a more coordinated school food system in Canada. However, significant gaps remain that could undermine the policy's effectiveness and longevity. Current bilateral agreements between federal and provincial/territorial governments highlight disparities in per-student funding, raising concerns about whether the allocated resources are adequate to achieve universally accessible, high-quality meal provision. Additionally, while the NSFP encourages school food programs to adhere to Canada's Food Guide and provincial nutrition guidelines, ambiguous language and the absence of enforceable standards leave room for inconsistent nutritional quality across programs. Furthermore, without a structured framework for monitoring and evaluation, there is no mechanism to assess program effectiveness, track nutritional outcomes, or ensure program accountability. To maximize the NSFP's impact, we urge policymakers to establish transparent funding rationales, develop clear and evidence-based national guidelines, and implement robust monitoring systems. Strengthening these policy components is essential to ensuring an equitable, effective, and sustainable approach to NSFP implementation in Canada.