Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s school lunch program is getting a vibrant and nutritious makeover! In a move blending taste with health, the state’s Education Department is set to introduce an upgraded midday meal menu featuring popular dishes like veg biryani, lemon rice, vegetable fried rice, and millet-based sweets, all based on expert recommendations.
Education Minister V. Sivankutty announced that the revamped menu follows a scientific approach to nutrition. The new guidelines mandate using appropriate vegetable alternatives and combining leafy greens with pulses or lentils for better dietary balance.
A weekly rotation of fortified rice dishes paired with curries like koottu curry and kuruma is now part of the plan. The inclusion of microgreens once or twice a month, and flavorful chutneys made from mint, gooseberry, raw mango, and ginger, aims to boost both health and taste.
To promote traditional grains, the menu will now feature ragi balls, millet dumplings (kozhukatta), ilayada, sweetened aval (flattened rice), carrot payasam, and millet puddings.
This wholesome transformation not only celebrates Kerala’s culinary heritage but also ensures students receive nutritious, diverse meals that support their overall development.
