Andalusia defends school cafeteria safety amid menu criticisms

Carmen Castillo, the Education Counselor for the Junta de Andalucía, has defended the safety and quality of school cafeteria services following recent criticisms regarding menus in Córdoba and Granada.

To ensure compliance with nutritional, quality, and organizational standards, the region employs two types of audits. The Evacole plan conducts on-site verifications and monthly menu reviews, while the Public Education Agency (APAE) performs additional visits. Castillo stated these measures are designed to “guarantee periodic supervision to detect and correct any incident that may occur.”

The defense follows recent controversies, including the discovery of larvae in a menu at a school in Granada. This incident prompted an inspection of the service provider, Mediterránea Group. Castillo emphasized that menus are designed according to the Mediterranean diet, featuring fresh fruit, vegetables, extra virgin olive oil, and a higher proportion of fish over meat.