School Meal Cost Per Pupil
| Ingredient | Qty / portion | Unit | Price / unit (€) | Cost (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken / Fish Protein | kg | — | ||
| Pasta / Rice / Potato | kg | — | ||
| Vegetables + Salad | kg | — | ||
| Dessert (fruit / yoghurt) | kg | — |
Cost per Portion
€0.00
Total Batch Cost
€0.00
Professional Tips for Accurate Costing
- EU school meal allowances: typically €2.50–4.80 per pupil per day depending on country.
- Plan 250g total food per primary pupil, 320g per secondary.
- Bulk purchase frozen vegetables, dry goods and pasta — saves 18–25% vs ad-hoc.
- Allergen safety is critical — schools are highest-risk environments for severe reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
€1.80–3.20 in ingredients depending on country and nutritional standards. Sells to the government / parent at €2.50–4.80, leaving 5–10% margin for the caterer.
Yes, mandatory under EU Reg 1169/2011. Schools are also the most common setting for severe allergic reactions, so staff training and ingredient verification are critical.
Very thin: 5–10% net. Success comes from volume (1,000+ meals/day), bulk purchasing, low waste and efficient kitchen workflows.