A project by the Department of Education of the Basque Government is nearing realization. Sources from the Executive have indicated that the creation of dedicated kitchens in Basauri schools will become a reality «starting next academic year». This news is highly anticipated by the local Parent-Teacher Associations (AMPAS), who have been advocating since 2021 for a change in the school canteen model, which currently relies on catering companies.
In June of last year, Minister Begoña Pedrosa announced that these new kitchens would arrive in Basauri during the current academic year, which ultimately did not happen. The Department of Education explains that the delay is due to two main reasons. Initially, the possibility of installing a single zonal kitchen at Bizkotxalde school was considered, but a pilot project conducted last summer concluded that a single facility might be too large and inflexible.
Consequently, the model currently being considered involves creating «several kitchens in different centers». However, their implementation «requires significant technical adaptations, as in many cases it is necessary to increase the electrical power of the centers or install additional infrastructure, making execution times more complex». The project envisions «latest-generation vertical electric kitchens, which allow for more precise control of cooking times and temperatures, helping to better preserve the nutritional properties of food».
The specific schools where these kitchens will be located are still unknown. «Available spaces and the number of diners are being analyzed to design the most suitable solution, and electrical power needs are also being considered», they explain. Regarding the operational method, meals will be prepared on-site and «subsequently transported by specialized vehicles that guarantee the maintenance of appropriate temperature and sanitary conditions». The goal is to minimize the time between preparation and consumption.
On one hand, we are concerned that if the company and raw materials remain the same, the situation may not be that different, and on the other hand, about the quality of the food our children will continue to eat until the project is finalized.
The AMPAS, who regret not having received information from the Basque Government «since December», view the news with «skepticism». They express concern that if the company and raw materials remain unchanged, the situation may not improve significantly, and about the quality of the food their children will continue to consume until the project is fully implemented.
