I believe there should be breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack, all for free and for every child that goes to school. And all food that is good, clean and fair.

In this quote, Alice Waters advocates for the provision of free and nutritious meals to children, emphasizing that every child attending school should have access to breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack. She believes that these meals should not only be provided for free but also be of high quality, including food that is good, clean, and fair. Waters’ statement underscores the idea that access to healthy food is a fundamental right for all children, regardless of their background or economic status.

The origin of this quote comes from Waters’ long-standing commitment to food justice and sustainable agriculture. As a renowned chef and activist, she has been a strong proponent of bringing healthy, locally sourced, and sustainably grown food into school cafeterias. Waters has advocated for food education and the promotion of a healthy relationship with food in schools through initiatives like the Edible Schoolyard program, which teaches children about gardening, cooking, and the importance of good food.

Waters’ vision of “good, clean, and fair” food refers to the principles she follows in her advocacy work: food that is nutritious, environmentally sustainable, and ethically produced. She argues that children deserve more than just any food; they should have access to food that supports their health, respects the environment, and is produced under fair conditions for workers. These values tie into her broader mission of creating a food system that is equitable, sustainable, and beneficial for both people and the planet.

Ultimately, Waters’ quote reflects her belief in food equality and her desire to ensure that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive with access to healthy meals. By pushing for nutritious, sustainable, and fair food in schools, she advocates for a society where food is seen not only as sustenance but as a tool for education, equity, and social change.