Canada is the only G7 country without a national school food program and sadly ranked 37th out of the world’s 41 wealthiest nations for access to healthy food (1). The implementation of a Universal Healthy School Food Program is in the best interest of Canadian children as it would support their health, well-being and education equitably.
To date, none of the Canadian provinces or territories have implemented a universal school food and nutrition program. That is not to say that food and nutrition programs are not being offered. The programs typically offered operate in high-need schools and communities with government funding, providing some but not all children access to the service. To ensure the health of all children and youth, a successful school food and nutrition program in Canada needs to be universal.