Nova Scotia Tests Reusable Packaging for School Lunches

Nova Scotia is taking a significant step towards sustainability by rolling out a pilot program that introduces reusable packaging for its school lunch program. This initiative aims to reduce waste generated by single-use plastics. The province announced the partnership with the Canadian company Friendlier, which will support the program in 34 schools that collectively serve 26,000 lunches each week.

The pilot program, set to begin at the end of February 2024, will see Friendlier providing clean, reusable containers for school lunches. These containers can be utilized up to 100 times before being recycled at the end of their lifecycle. The company, founded in 2019 by two chemical engineers, aims to make a substantial impact on sustainability. Co-founder Jacquie Hanton emphasized that this initiative not only facilitates waste reduction but also helps instill lasting habits in students.

“By making reuse simple and accessible, Friendlier empowers students to eliminate daily packaging waste and build habits that last a lifetime,” Hanton stated in a release.

In conjunction with the new packaging initiative, Nova Scotia is also revamping its school lunch menu. The province is investing approximately $80 million in the lunch program for the 2025-26 school year. The menu will now feature a variety of new dishes, including pork and vegetarian egg roll bowls, chicken fingers, and gluten-friendly cornbread.

Schools that prepare meals on-site will offer grilled cheese with tomato soup and pork quesadillas, while those that require lunch delivery will include transport-friendly options like barbecued chicken drumsticks and glazed meatloaf. Adjustments have also been made to existing meals to ensure they are suitable for transportation, with whole fruits like apples and oranges added as sides.

This lunch program was initially available only for elementary school students but has expanded this year to include middle and junior high school grades. The federal government is contributing $12.4 million over three years through its National School Food Program, further supporting the initiative.

The introduction of reusable packaging and a refreshed menu reflects Nova Scotia’s commitment to sustainability and improving the nutrition of students across the province. As the pilot program rolls out, it sets an important precedent for similar initiatives in schools across Canada and beyond. The move is part of a broader trend towards environmental responsibility in food programs, aiming to create a lasting impact for future generations.