Slovenia Issues Guide for Local, Organic School Food

Why this is here: Current regulations require public institutions to source at least 20% of their food from quality assurance schemes beyond organic certification, like “Selected Quality – Slovenia.”

The Slovenian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food released a guide intended to increase the presence of local, organic food in kindergarten and school meals. The guide details best practices for incorporating these foods into public procurement processes. It targets food organizers and kitchen staff in educational institutions, and aims to strengthen local supply chains.

The guide addresses practical challenges—including financial, logistical, and staffing issues—that currently limit the use of local, organic options. Many institutions struggle to meet legal requirements for organic food percentages, often relying on imported organic produce. Recent inspections from December 2024 and January 2025 found only 30% of reviewed facilities reached the 12% organic food target that was in place until the end of 2024.

The ministry acknowledges ongoing difficulties but believes the guide will help schools overcome hurdles and expand sustainable food practices. They hope to support organic farming and meet goals outlined in Slovenia’s action plan for organic agriculture through 2027. The work to improve school meals continues.