From crowd-pleasers like Butter Chicken and Fried Rice to fresh, colourful Sushi Bowls, Queensland’s school tuckshops are dishing up nutritious favourites that prove healthy food can be just as delicious as it is good for you.
To mark Tuckshop Day this Friday, 7 November, the Queensland Association of School Tuckshops (QAST) has taken a closer look at the most common meals appearing on healthy tuckshop menus across the state — and the results show how far school food has come.
Leading the list were fresh sandwiches, wraps and toasties, followed by hot meal favourites such as Pasta Bolognese, Butter Chicken, Fried Rice, Pizza and Chicken Burgers. Other popular options included sushi bowls, burritos, mac and cheese, and hamburgers — all reimagined with a healthier twist and often home-made.
“Today’s tuckshops are creative, clever and committed to good nutrition,” said Naomi Blines, QAST Project Manager.
“Tuckshop staff and volunteers play such an important role in school life. They’re often the heart of the school community, greeting students with a smile, providing nutritious meals that fuel learning, and creating a welcoming space where everyone feels cared for.
“Parents now see tuckshop as an essential service, not just an occasional treat — and menus are reflecting that, with more fresh ingredients, balanced options, and variety that keeps kids coming back.”
Schools like Loganholme State School, Oxley State School, Cannonvale State School, Ferny Grove State High School, Oonoonba State School and Cavendish Road State High School are leading the way with menus that prioritise wholegrains, lean proteins and plenty of vegetables, while still offering meals students love to eat.
“As families increasingly turn to tuckshop for convenience and peace of mind, QAST is continuing to support schools in providing healthy, affordable choices that make life easier for parents and help students stay focused in the classroom,” Ms Blines said.
“Tuckshop Day this Friday is an opportunity to celebrate the dedication of the staff and volunteers behind the counter — the people making these nutritious favourites possible.”
The 10 Most Popular Meals on Queensland’s Healthiest Tuckshop Menus
- Fresh sandwiches, wraps and toasties
- Pasta Bolognese
- Butter Chicken
- Fried Rice
- Pizza
- Chicken Burger
- Sushi/Sushi Bowl
- Mac and Cheese
- Hamburger/Cheeseburger
- Burrito (beef or chicken)
