France’s one-euro student meals prove Popular, And challenging
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In France, university dining halls have seen a surge in students taking advantage of a new program offering complete meals for one euro.
Since May, the Cnous, the national organization of university dining halls, has provided students, including international students, with a three-course meal consisting of a main dish and two sides for the reduced price.
The program has proven highly successful, with dining halls serving 48 percent more meals compared to the start of the previous academic year, totaling 1.3 million portions. The French government currently funds the initiative with 50 million euros, covering 88 percent of the cost per meal and enabling the hiring of 204 additional full-time staff. Minister of Higher Education and Research Philippe Baptiste plans to add another 143 million euros to the 2027 budget to continue the program.
However, the increased demand has created challenges. Dining hall staff are facing higher workloads, prompting unions to call for a strike to protest working conditions. Students are also experiencing long lines, with some reporting they have had to skip meals due to the wait. The Cnous is now asking regional dining halls to ensure they operate within safe and sustainable limits for both staff and students.
