French universities have begun offering €1 (86p) meals to all students regardless of income, in a measure that addresses the shocking revelation that young people need to eat. The three-course meal, normally €3.30, was previously only available to those with low incomes or receiving financial aid, but student unions pushed to extend the discount to everyone, presumably because hunger isn't a respecter of arbitrary bureaucratic categories.
Alexandre Ioannides, an 18-year-old student in Paris, is thrilled that the savings will go towards "going out or eating at a restaurant" - because apparently even the French need a break from their own cuisine. "I come here 20 times a month. That’s about €60. Whereas now, I’ll pay €20," he said, demonstrating math skills that suggest the education system isn't entirely failing.
The policy targets financial strain highlighted by a January survey from a student union organization, which found that 48% of students had gone without food for financial reasons and 23% did so several times a month. Because nothing says "developed nation" like a fifth of your youth regularly skipping meals.
About 667,000 students benefited from the €1 lunch scheme in 2024, a 5.3% increase from the previous year, with about 46.7m meals served at both the discounted and standard €3.30 rates, according to university restaurant operator Crous. The government is preparing for a rise in demand, with higher education minister Philippe Baptiste promising €120m in 2027 to back the scheme.
"It is a small internal revolution," said Baptiste, who has promised to oversee the programme to ensure it doesn't lead to an excessive workload for canteen staff or a decline in food quality. Because if there's one thing students love, it's revolution - as long as it comes with decent croissants.