French Children Were Served Wine at School on Their Lunch Breaks, All the Way Up Until 1956

In 1956, the French government officially banned the serving of wine, beer, and cider in school cafeterias to children under the age of 14. Prior to this ban, it was common practice for French schoolchildren to be served these beverages during lunch, with some reports indicating they were entitled to up to half a liter a day.

Wine was considered a nutritional staple rather than a vice. It was believed to aid digestion, provide energy, and strengthen” young bodies.

During the early 20th century, alcohol was thought to have antibacterial properties that could kill microbes and prevent colds. In areas where clean drinking water was scarce, diluted wine was often seen as a safer alternative.

Many parents encouraged the practice, sometimes even sending their children to school with their own bottles of wine or cider in their lunch baskets.