The enormous increase in the number of children* eating their mid-day dinners at school canteens came at a time when enlargement of school buildings was impossible and when equipment was difficult to obtain. The following report on meals served in nine canteens illustrates the success that has been achieved in providing adequate meals in spite of great difficulties of preparation and service. The schools were chosen to represent different conditions of environment and type of canteen. Sample meals were analysed and an attempt was made to assess the home food of the children.