Government Decision No. HG794/2025 validating the Framework Regulation on the organization and operation of the Social Food Support Service and the Minimum Quality Standards.

This Government Decision approves the Framework Regulation on the organization and functioning of the Social Food Support Service and the Minimum Quality Standards for that service. The Regulation defines the Social Food Support Service as a social service aimed at supporting disadvantaged persons and families in situations of difficulty by ensuring access to food services according to identified needs. It sets out definitions for key terms (beneficiary, provider, non-perishable food products, social canteen, social food counter, mobile canteen, social catering, food package, food voucher, multidisciplinary team) and establishes the service’s scope, objectives, and guiding principles, including accessibility, non-discrimination, individualized approach, partnership, confidentiality, transparency, and respect for beneficiaries’ autonomy and dignity. The text details eligibility conditions and the case management process for admission, including citizenship or qualifying foreigner status, confirmation of a situation of difficulty through a needs assessment report, issuance of an administrative act granting the right to the service, and conclusion of a service contract and collaboration agreement. It regulates evaluation and re-evaluation of needs, decision-making by the provider, monitoring, modification of service forms, and grounds and procedures for suspension and termination of services. The Regulation classifies the service into stationary (social canteen, social food counter, mobile canteen), mobile (social catering, food package) and non-food (food voucher) forms, and sets rules for each form, including menu display, hygiene and food safety requirements, transport and packaging conditions, and mechanisms for distribution or collection of meals, packages, and vouchers. It also regulates cost modalities (free, full cost, partial cost), with the provider and beneficiary jointly determining the applicable modality. The Minimum Quality Standards annexed to the Decision establish regulatory principles and operational benchmarks for accessibility, information, individualized approach, beneficiary participation, confidentiality, and non-discrimination. They specify documentation requirements for beneficiary files, procedures for admission, modification, suspension and cessation of services, and requirements for premises, authorizations, and internal regulations. Further standards address monitoring and evaluation of service activities, planning and development (including annual activity plans and reporting), human resources (organizational structure, staffing, employment conditions, training and supervision), and financial management. The text also introduces safeguards for protection of beneficiaries and staff against abuse, and a formal procedure for submission and examination of petitions and complaints in accordance with the Administrative Code, including record-keeping and feedback obligations. Oversight of correct and uniform application of the Regulation is entrusted to the State Social Inspectorate, while financial control is carried out by competent control bodies.