Previously limited to scholarship recipients and students in financial difficulty, the scheme now applies nationwide. Officials said the measure aims to improve student well-being and reduce financial pressure on young people in higher education.

The 1-euro meal initiative was first introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic before gradually expanding in recent years. According to the report, student organisations and universities have welcomed the wider rollout as food insecurity among students continues to rise. The programme is also intended to encourage equal access to affordable and balanced meals across French campuses.