A new initiative aimed at encouraging sustainable fish consumption among children has been launched in four primary schools across Malta, with the pilot project beginning in Marsaxlokk.
The ‘Fish Fridays’ programme, led by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Fisheries Aquaculture and Animal Rights, seeks to raise awareness of the nutritional benefits of fish as part of a balanced diet. The initiative combines educational sessions with practical tasting experiences to engage students from an early age.
Nutritionists delivered interactive sessions to pupils from Year 1 to Year 6, with children grouped by age to ensure effective participation. Following the talks, students were given portions of specially prepared fish-based meals, allowing them to experience the food first-hand.
The pilot is being implemented using a rotation system within participating schools to ensure all students can take part safely and efficiently. Authorities said the initial phase will help assess how the programme operates in practice, with a view to extending it to more schools nationwide.
Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said, who attended the launch at Marsaxlokk Primary School, said the initiative is intended to instil healthier eating habits among younger generations. She noted that students showed enthusiasm and curiosity, adding that she hopes the programme will eventually be rolled out across all schools.
The Malta Food Agency also backed the initiative, with Chief Business Development Officer Justin John Camilleri describing the launch as a success. He said the project was well received by students and thanked educators and parents for supporting the activity, including granting consent for children to participate in the tasting sessions.
School representatives likewise welcomed the programme, highlighting its educational value. The Head of School at Marsaxlokk Primary said students had the opportunity to try different types of fish while learning about nutrition, expressing hope that the knowledge gained would extend beyond the classroom and into students’ homes.
