Integrated analyses for planning the inclusion of fish in Timor-Leste’s School Meal Program: Proof of concept

Abstract

Incorporating fish and other aquatic foods in School Meal Programs (SMPs) can improve nutrition for schoolchildren while providing market opportunities for local food producers, creating healthier and more resilient island food systems. A new analytical tool for Timor-Leste applies a ‘mosaic of approaches’ framing for planning safe fish supply to schools – considering fresh fish and fish-based products, from marine and aquaculture sources. This brief presents the tool as a proof of concept and outlines its potential applications, including strengthening planning capacity and multisectoral partner engagement. Detailed results will be further tested and refined in upcoming work.