Among the poor, there is often not enough food at home, and most schools in developing countries lack canteens or cafeterias. School meals are a good way to channel vital nourishment to poor children. Having a full stomach also helps them to concentrate better on their lessons.

In countries where school attendance is low, the promise of at least one nutritious meal each day boosts enrolment and promotes regular attendance. Parents are motivated to send their children to school instead of keeping them at home to work or care for siblings.

In the poorest parts of the world, a school meal programme can double primary school enrolment in one year. Among the key beneficiaries are girls, who otherwise may never be given the opportunity to learn.

WFP school meals can take the form of a mid-morning snack or a nutritious breakfast of porridge. WFP usesfortified food to ensure that children get the micronutrients they need. Studies show that diet and nutrition play a critical role in physical and intellectual development.

However something more is needed to attract the poorest girls to school. In its "take-home rations" projects, WFP provides basic food items, often including a sack of rice and a can of cooking oil, to families who send their daughters to school.