The National School Meals Programme has issued an official clarification regarding recent allegations about meal quality standards. According to the program’s operational protocols, vegetarian meals are exclusively prepared and distributed based on prior registration to ensure proper resource allocation, food safety, and accurate meal planning. Records confirm that no vegetarian meal requests had been registered at the concerned school before the incident date.
The program clarified that the teacher involved did not request a vegetarian meal through proper channels. Instead, the individual opted for a standard meal at the serving point and specifically requested only vegetable components, which were provided as asked. The program emphasized that any subsequent presentation of this meal—particularly if deliberately altered to appear unappetizing—does not accurately represent the actual quality or standards of meals routinely prepared and served.
Reaffirming its commitment to nutritional excellence, the National School Meals Programme stated it maintains rigorous standards for meal preparation and service. While acknowledging operational challenges inherent to large-scale programs, officials denied any intentional serving of substandard or unfit meals to children.
The statement encouraged constructive engagement from the public and educators, urging them to utilize official channels for service-related concerns rather than resorting to public misrepresentation. Program officials emphasized their dedication to continuous improvement and respectful dialogue focused on children’s welfare.
The program expressed pride in its teams who prepare and serve thousands of meals daily across Antigua and Barbuda, requesting that future concerns be raised through appropriate channels for professional resolution.