Summary:
The resolution modifies the guidelines for the allocation of the funds of the National School Meals Program [Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar - PNAE] relying on the NOVA food classification system.
Description:
General overview on fund for the on National School Meals Program [Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar – PNAE]
The resolution imposes several restrictions on including processed and ultra-processed foods (in Portuguese, “alimentos ultraprocessados”) in the PNAE. A key innovation in this resolution is its reliance on the NOVA food classification system to differentiate foods based on processing levels: unprocessed or minimally processed foods, processed foods, culinary ingredients, and ultra-processed products (UPPs).
Specifically, it establishes:
- Minimum amounts of fruits, vegetables, and legumes for school menus, as well as limits on meats, canned vegetables, sweetened beverages, desserts, and UPPs (Art. 18).
- Financial restrictions to promote balanced school meals, stating that:
- At least 75% of funds must go toward fresh or minimally processed foods.
- No more than 20% may be allocated for processed foods and UPPs.
- A maximum of 5% is allowed for purchasing processed culinary ingredients (Art. 21).
- A prohibition on using funds to buy specific UPPs, including soft drinks, artificial refreshments, drinks or concentrates with guarana or currant syrup, ready-to-drink teas, sweetened or additive-containing cereals, candies, chocolate bars, filled biscuits, cakes with toppings or fillings, sweetened cereal bars with additives, gelatin, monosodium glutamate or sodium salts, mayonnaise, and powdered or reconstituted food, among others (Art. 22).
Furthermore, the resolution outlines principles for nutrition education, aiming to integrate social, financial, and environmental sustainability while respecting local traditions. It also promotes values such as autonomy and self-care.