Budget documents show officials aren't sure the free school lunch scheme is worth the money.
The Treasury report says the programme improves nutrient intake and contributes to happier students, but has no effect on attendance and provides little benefit for Māori students.
Education Minister, Jan Tinetti, wanted to make the $160m per year scheme permanent.
But officials recommended funding for two years only, with permanent funding dependent on proof the scheme is effective for Māori.
Cathy Chalmers is the principal at Greenmeadows Intermediate School in Auckland - which is part of the free lunch service.
She spoke to Corin Dann.
