OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to reflect on the planning of menus for the Brazilian National School Food Program, illustrating this procedure in the cities of Florianópolis (SC) and Belém (PA). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was done to interview program dieticians and analyze the menus of 2010 for municipal elementary schools. The resolution nº 38/2009 passed by the federal program manager was used as reference. RESULTS: The menus in Belém were standardized and contained little produce. In Florianópolis, the menus were prepared according to management criteria and particularities of the schools, and contained more produce. In both capital cities, regional foods were used infrequently and food was never purchased directly from producers. CONCLUSION: Various peculiarities were found in the study capitals, demonstrating a nonstandard implementation of the National School Food Program after its decentralization. The program needs to include more regional foods in the menu and laws that encourage direct purchasing from local producers.
School feeding; Menu planning; Nutrition programs and policies
