Public schools in Basauri will soon feature a unique 'mixed model' for their canteens, a first in Euskadi. Three schools – Sofía Taramona, Arizko Ikastola, and Basozelai Gaztelu – will have their own "vertical electric kitchens," while a central kitchen in Soloarte will cater to these and the schools of Etxegarai, Kareaga, and Bizkotxalde. This initiative will benefit 1,600 students.
The new vertical kitchens are designed for efficient cooking processes, reducing preparation time and the need for extensive equipment. The central kitchen will be "industrial type" and will serve its four schools through a "proximity distribution system with short routes."
“"Quality food that can be prepared with this type of installation, using local products."
Begoña Pedrosa, the Basque Government's Minister of Education, and Basauri mayor Asier Iragorri attended the project's presentation. Pedrosa highlighted the "quality food" and "convenient operation" of these facilities, while Iragorri acknowledged the efforts of the AMPAs in pushing for "a historic demand".
A specific start date for the service has not been provided due to the "complex process with many technical requirements." However, construction is anticipated to begin at Basozelai Gaztelu during 2026, marking the first school to adopt this model.
This development follows several months of controversy, during which AMPAs reported "the presence of pests in the food at some centers" and criticized "delays and lack of information regarding the project."
