A new consultation line dedicated to the nutrition of schoolchildren is set to begin operating in the regions of Russia starting on April 1. The information was shared via a Telegram channel associated with Rospotrebnadzor, the federal service for consumer rights protection and human well-being. The move aims to provide families and school staff with clear guidance on safe, balanced meals for students.
According to an official statement, the helpline will run from April 1 through April 12. During this period, specialists from Rospotrebnadzor will answer questions about how meals are organized in educational institutions, the responsibilities of school administrations in managing student nutrition, and how parents can exercise oversight of their children’s dietary intake at school. The experts will also outline core principles of healthy eating and practical tips for implementing them within school settings.
The announcement underscores the goal of improving nutrition practices in schools and ensuring that meal programs support students’ growth, learning, and overall well-being. The helpline is envisioned as a resource for addressing common concerns, dispelling myths about nutrition, and offering evidence-based recommendations suitable for the school environment.
In recent months, discussions around school nutrition have been sparked by reports of food quality issues in some institutions. There have been isolated cases where students experienced adverse health effects after meals, prompting closer scrutiny of meal preparation, food safety, and supervision in cafeterias. Education authorities have highlighted the importance of transparent procedures, regular training for cafeteria staff, and compliance with established dietary guidelines to protect student health.
Education officials emphasize that any incident involving the wellbeing of students is taken seriously. Systems are in place to monitor catering services, conduct routine inspections, and respond swiftly to concerns raised by parents, students, or staff. The ongoing focus remains on delivering nutritious, safe, and appetizing meals that support concentration and energy throughout the school day.
From the outset, the nutrition line will serve as a bridge between families and school administrations. It will offer practical advice on meal planning, portion sizes appropriate for various age groups, and strategies to reduce waste while maintaining nutritional integrity. Parents can also learn how to read school menus, understand ingredient lists, and identify potential allergens important for their children’s safety. The service will provide updates on policy changes, safety standards, and best practices in school nutrition that align with national health guidelines.
Experts stress that healthy school meals contribute to better attendance, improved academic performance, and more engaged learning. By centralizing information through the helpline, families across regions can access consistent, science-based guidance regardless of local distinctions. The initiative also invites feedback from schools and communities, helping to tailor recommendations to real-world needs and challenges that educators and families face every day.