First deputy to the town hall of Mouans-Sartoux, Gilles Pérole was this Thursday morning guest of France Bleu Azur, in “Une Maire, Une Info”. The elected official is also in charge of school catering at the AMF (Association of Mayors of France).
100% organic, but not more expensive: how?
“The canteen has been 100% organic for 10 years, both for the health of children and the well-being of the environment” recalls Gilles Pérole. “The supply is 80% regional. The vegetables are entirely grown in Mouans-Sartoux. This is what allows us not to increase prices at present.“
However, certified organic foods are more expensive, but how not to pass on the price to the parents? “We managed not to increase our food purchase budget, for example by reducing food waste by 80%, and by serving 50% of meals based on vegetable proteins and eggs, and the rest based on meat and of fish” responds the chosen one. “By seeking virtuous savings for health and the environment, we have managed to eat 100% organic without spending more.“
The hunt for waste notably involves skilful work on the quantities cooked, adapted to the appetite of each child. The waste from the canteens is weighed every day, to be sure not to waste.