Curry and couscous is replacing traditional prosciutto in Italy’s new Muslim-friendly school meals

Some schools in Italy’s Pordenone province plan to replace pork dishes such as prosciutto and amatriciana with meals including chicken curry and couscous, citing the need to accommodate pupils who cannot eat pork for religious reasons. The change has become part of a wider debate over how to balance inclusion with preserving regional food traditions.

Children of foreign-born or second-generation families make up 21 per cent of pupils in the region, twice the national average. Regional guidance favours white meat over red, though some schools will continue offering pork, and a primary school in Spilimbergo lets pupils add ham to pizza. Politicians are divided: some defend the menu changes as respectful alternatives, while others say they threaten Italian cuisine; the province’s mayor says traditional dishes will be retained where possible.