Cost analysis and nutritional adequacy of school meal programs and dormitory food expenses in Mongolia

Abstract

This study evaluates the adequacy of funding for Mongolia’s school meal programs and dormitory food provisions, focusing on nutritional standards, current expenditure levels, and structural cost drivers. Using normative budget analysis, inflation-adjusted cost modeling, and empirical field data from selected schools, the study examines whether existing allocations meet national nutrition standards and assesses the economic implications of funding shortfalls. The findings reveal substantial gaps. Observed school lunches provided approximately 27% of students’ daily energy requirements, below the national target of approximately 35%, while current dormitory meal allocations were estimated to cover approximately 55-77% of the cost required to meet full daily nutritional needs, depending on grade level. In addition to rising food prices, operational expenditures, particularly labor and associated social insurance contributions, significantly increase the effective per-student cost. Regional differences and seasonal constraints further influence procurement expenses and dietary diversity, especially in remote areas with transportation limitations. The ingredient-based funding gap is estimated at approximately Mongolian Tugriks (MNT) 60 billion annually; total financing requirements would be higher once operational costs are incorporated. Policy recommendations include revising funding norms to incorporate operational costs, indexing allocations to inflation, introducing regionally responsive adjustments, and strengthening meal management systems to sustainably meet nutritional targets.