VAT at 12%: School Meal Prices Rise
Belgian School Meal Costs Face Potential Increase Amidst VAT Uncertainty
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Rising VAT Concerns School Meal Providers
School meal providers in Belgium are bracing for potential cost increases following a recent government decision regarding value added Tax (VAT) on takeaway meals. While fresh takeaway waffles will be taxed at 12% and packaged waffles at 6% as reported by DHnet,the submission of these rates too meals served in educational establishments remains unclear.
Catering companies like TCO, which supplies several schools, believe they may fall under the higher 12% VAT bracket.”We fall into the ‘caterer’ category so a priori the VAT will increase to 12% but we do not know if this will apply to meals distributed in schools,” a TCO representative stated.
Cuisines bruxelloises, preparing 13,500 dishes daily for students across 10 Brussels municipalities, shares this uncertainty. Director José Oricco We still need to check at what rate we will be taxed.
Impact on Vulnerable Students
The League of Families, a long-time advocate for accessible school meals, is also awaiting clarification.concerns are mounting as no definitive answer has been provided by the government.Valérie Glatigny, Minister of Education, has indicated her office is analyzing the situation, but no firm commitment has been made.
An increase in VAT typically translates to higher prices for consumers. This could meen more expensive school lunches next year, potentially impacting families already struggling with affordability. DHnet reported on December 8, 2025, that over 55,000 children will lose access to free meals, facing a minimum cost of €3 per day, highlighting the financial strain on insecure families.
The League of Families fears a return to the “empty lunch box” scenario, where students from low-income households are unable to afford a school lunch.
Historical Context of School Meal Programs in Belgium
Belgium has a long history of providing subsidized meals to students,recognizing the link between nutrition and academic performance. Though, funding and access have varied substantially across regions and municipalities. Recent cuts to funding, as highlighted by the League of Families, demonstrate the ongoing challenges in ensuring equitable access to affordable, nutritious meals for all students.