Have you ever dreamed of starting your own small business while still in school?
I remember my college days when I turned my passion for cooking into a profitable side hustle that helped cover my tuition and daily expenses.
The beauty of selling food in Philippine schools is that you’re targeting a captive market of hungry students with limited time and options.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the 19 best foods to sell in school in the Philippines based on my experience and extensive research.
Whether you’re a student looking to earn extra income or a parent wanting to help your child develop entrepreneurial skills, these food business ideas offer an excellent starting point.
I’ll cover everything from traditional Filipino favorites to modern snacks that students love, along with practical advice on preparation, pricing, and marketing strategies.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which foods to sell in school in the Philippines would work best for your situation and how to get started right away.
How I Selected These Foods to Sell in School in the Philippines
Before looking at the list, let me explain how I chose these specific foods to sell in school in the Philippines.
My selection criteria focused on several key factors that determine success in the school food business environment:
Profitability: I prioritized items with good profit margins, typically 30-50% or higher.
Popularity: Each food item has proven demand among Filipino students.
Ease of Preparation: Since time is limited between classes, I favored foods that can be prepared quickly or made in advance.
Transportability: The foods need to be easily transported to school without spoiling or losing quality.
Nutritional Value: While not all items are health foods, I tried to include options that provide some nutritional benefits.
Compliance with School Regulations: I considered foods that generally comply with school health and safety guidelines.
I’ve also factored in the initial investment required, separating items that need minimal startup capital from those requiring more significant equipment or ingredients.
This list isn’t ranked in order of importance—the best choice for you will depend on your specific circumstances, skills, and school environment.
1. Siomai
When it comes to foods to sell in school in the Philippines, siomai consistently ranks as one of the top choices.
These steamed dumplings have become a staple in the Filipino street food scene and are especially popular among students.
Why Siomai Works Well in Schools
Siomai is a compact, protein-rich snack that students can easily eat between classes.
The combination of meat (typically pork or chicken) wrapped in thin wonton wrappers offers a satisfying bite that helps students power through their day.
What makes siomai particularly attractive as a business is its high profit margin.
A tray of 40-50 pieces can cost around ₱150-₱200 to make, but you can sell each piece for ₱5-₱7, potentially earning ₱250-₱350 per tray.
Preparation Tips
You can prepare siomai in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
All you need at school is a portable steamer to heat them up fresh before selling.
For sauce options, prepare separate containers of:
- Soy sauce with calamansi
- Chili oil
- Minced garlic in oil
Packaging and Presentation
Serve siomai in small paper cups or biodegradable containers with a tiny sauce cup on the side.
Consider offering deals like “5 pieces for ₱25” to encourage larger purchases.
I’ve seen students who started with just one small steamer and a cooler eventually expand to multiple food items because siomai provided such a solid foundation for their business.
2. Fishballs and Squidballs
No discussion of foods to sell in school in the Philippines would be complete without mentioning fishballs and squidballs.
These deep-fried street foods have been a Filipino student favorite for generations.
The Appeal of Fishballs and Squidballs
The chewy texture and savory flavor of these balls make them irresistible to students.
They’re quick to eat and satisfying, especially when paired with the right sauce.
What makes them particularly attractive as a business is their incredibly low cost.
A bag of 100 frozen fishballs costs around ₱100-₱150, and you can sell 5 pieces for ₱10-₱15, yielding a profit margin of over 100%.
Equipment Needs
You’ll need:
- A portable deep fryer or frying pan
- Bamboo skewers
- Sauce containers
Sauce Varieties
Offer at least three sauce options:
- Sweet sauce (brown sugar, cornstarch, soy sauce)
- Spicy vinegar sauce
- Sweet chili sauce
One student entrepreneur I know started with just fishballs and eventually expanded to a full street food menu, funding her entire college education through this business.
3. Kwek-kwek (Quail Eggs)
Kwek-kwek has become increasingly popular among foods to sell in school in the Philippines due to its vibrant orange color and delicious taste.
Why Students Love Kwek-kwek
These deep-fried battered quail eggs are visually appealing and offer a good protein boost.
The crispy exterior and soft egg inside create a textural contrast that students enjoy.
Profit margins are excellent, with a tray of 30 quail eggs costing around ₱120-₱150, and each piece selling for ₱5-₱7.
Preparation Considerations
Kwek-kwek requires:
- Pre-boiled quail eggs
- Orange batter (flour, cornstarch, annatto powder)
- Portable fryer
Complementary Offerings
Serve with:
- Vinegar dipping sauce with chopped onions, cucumber, and chili
- Sweet and sour sauce
I’ve seen vendors who specifically became known for their kwek-kwek, attracting students from other sections or even other schools because of their special batter recipe.
4. Homemade Sandwiches
Sandwiches are among the most practical foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially for morning classes when students need a substantial breakfast.
Sandwich Varieties That Sell Well
Chicken Spread Sandwiches: Shredded chicken mixed with mayonnaise and vegetables.
Egg Sandwiches: Hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise and a touch of salt and pepper.
Tuna Sandwiches: Canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise, onions, and pickles.
Ham and Cheese: Simple but always popular.
Cost and Profit Analysis
A loaf of bread (₱50-₱60) can make 10-12 sandwiches.
With fillings costing around ₱15-₱20 per sandwich, your total cost is approximately ₱25-₱30 per sandwich.
You can sell each sandwich for ₱40-₱50, giving you a profit of ₱15-₱20 per piece.
Packaging Tips
Use:
- Wax paper or food-grade plastic wrap
- Small sandwich bags with your logo
- Eco-friendly containers if possible
One student I know started selling sandwiches because her mother was already making them for her breakfast.
She simply asked her mom to make extra, and soon she was selling 20 sandwiches daily!
5. Fruit Shakes
Fruit shakes have gained popularity among foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially during hot months.
Seasonal Shake Varieties
Mango Shake: The all-time Filipino favorite.
Buko Pandan: Coconut with pandan flavoring.
Watermelon Shake: Refreshing and hydrating.
Mixed Fruit Shake: Combination of seasonal fruits.
Equipment Investment
This business requires:
- Blender (portable or battery-operated)
- Cooler for ice and ingredients
- Cups and straws
Profit Potential
A 16oz shake can cost ₱25-₱30 to make (including fruit, ice, sugar, and cup) and sell for ₱50-₱60, giving you a profit of ₱25-₱30 per shake.
The initial investment is higher than some other options due to the equipment needed, but the profit margin is excellent, especially if you can source fruits at wholesale prices.
6. Banana Cue
Banana cue remains one of the most beloved foods to sell in school in the Philippines, combining affordability with delicious taste.
Why Banana Cue Sells Well
This sweet treat consists of saba bananas coated in caramelized brown sugar and skewered on bamboo sticks.
The combination of natural sweetness and caramelization creates an irresistible snack.
Cost Breakdown
A bunch of saba bananas (12-15 pieces) costs around ₱60-₱80. Brown sugar costs approximately ₱10-₱15 per batch. Bamboo skewers are very inexpensive.
Selling each banana cue for ₱10-₱15 gives you a profit of about ₱5-₱8 per piece.
Preparation Tips
You’ll need:
- Portable stove or burner
- Frying pan
- Tongs for handling
- Storage container
I know a student who combined banana cue with turon (item #7) and camote cue (sweet potato) to create a “sweet trio” that became his signature product line.
7. Turon
Turon takes the banana snack concept to the next level and has become increasingly popular among foods to sell in school in the Philippines.
What Makes Turon Special
Turon consists of sliced saba bananas (sometimes with jackfruit strips) wrapped in spring roll wrappers, fried, and coated in caramelized sugar.
The crispy exterior contrasts wonderfully with the soft, sweet banana inside.
Profit Analysis
Each turon costs about ₱10-₱12 to make, including the wrapper, banana, and oil.
You can sell each piece for ₱15-₱20, giving you a profit of ₱5-₱8 per turon.
Preparation Strategy
Prepare turon wrappers in advance and store them in a container separated by wax paper to prevent sticking.
Fry them fresh at school or prepare them in the morning and keep them in a heated container.
One entrepreneur I know created a “turon special” by adding a scoop of ice cream for an additional ₱10, which dramatically increased her profits during hot months.
8. Gulaman
Gulaman (jelly drink) is perfect for hot days and ranks high among foods to sell in school in the Philippines during summer months.
Gulaman Variations
Classic Sago’t Gulaman: Brown sugar syrup with tapioca pearls and jelly cubes.
Fruit Gulaman: Adding fruit pieces like nata de coco or fruit cocktail.
Flavored Gulaman: Using different flavor extracts like pandan, strawberry, or ube.
Cost and Profit Calculation
A 16oz cup of gulaman costs approximately ₱10-₱15 to make (including cup, jelly, sugar, and water).
You can sell it for ₱20-₱25, giving you a profit of ₱10-₱15 per cup.
Preparation Tips
Prepare gulaman (jelly) cubes and sago (tapioca pearls) in advance. Mix brown sugar syrup separately. Bring these components to school in separate containers and assemble when selling.
During extremely hot days, some vendors I know have completely sold out of gulaman before lunch break, showing just how popular this refreshment can be.
9. Rice Meals
Rice meals represent a more substantial business opportunity among foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially for lunch periods.
Popular Rice Meal Options
Adobo Rice: Chicken or pork adobo served over rice.
Sisig Rice: Chopped pork face parts with rice.
Tocino Rice: Sweet cured pork with rice.
Fried Chicken Rice: Breaded chicken with rice.
Business Model Considerations
This requires more preparation and equipment than snack items:
- Insulated food containers
- Disposable plates or eco-friendly containers
- Plastic utensils
Profit Potential
A rice meal costs approximately ₱35-₱45 to prepare and can sell for ₱60-₱80, giving you a profit of ₱25-₱35 per meal.
While this requires more work, it also offers higher profit per unit and can become a sustainable business if you have the capabilities to prepare multiple meals daily.
One student I know partnered with her mother to prepare 30 rice meals daily, financing her entire college education through this business.
10. Pancit
Pancit is a Filipino noodle dish that has become a reliable option among foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially for afternoon snacks.
Pancit Varieties That Sell Well
Pancit Canton: Stir-fried egg noodles with vegetables and meat.
Pancit Bihon: Rice noodles with similar toppings.
Pancit Palabok: Rice noodles with shrimp sauce and various toppings.
Pricing and Packaging
Sell pancit in:
- Small cups (₱20-₱25)
- Medium cups (₱30-₱35)
- Large cups (₱40-₱50)
The cost to prepare pancit is around ₱15-₱20 per small cup, giving you a profit of approximately ₱5-₱10 per serving.
Marketing Approach
Promote pancit as a satisfying afternoon snack or light meal option. Offer calamansi on the side for authentic flavor.
A student vendor I know became known as the “Pancit Queen” and eventually catered small school events using the reputation she built selling pancit daily.
11. Cupcakes and Brownies
Baked goods like cupcakes and brownies have a special place among foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially for students with a sweet tooth.
Baked Goods That Sell Well
Chocolate Cupcakes: Classic favorite with various frosting options.
Red Velvet Cupcakes: Popular for their distinctive color and cream cheese frosting.
Fudge Brownies: Rich chocolate treats that sell quickly.
Blondies: A non-chocolate alternative to brownies.
Preparation Strategy
Bake items the night before or early morning before school.
Package them individually in clear plastic wrap or small boxes with your branding.
Cost and Profit Analysis
Each cupcake costs approximately ₱12-₱15 to make and can sell for ₱25-₱30.
Brownies cost around ₱10-₱12 per piece to make (when cut from a large batch) and sell for ₱20-₱25.
This gives you a profit margin of about 100%, making baked goods highly profitable.
A friend of mine started selling cupcakes just once a week (every Friday) as a special treat, and the limited availability created such demand that she eventually expanded to daily sales of various baked goods.
12. Puto and Kutsinta
Traditional Filipino kakanin like puto (steamed rice cake) and kutsinta (brown rice cake) are excellent foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially for students looking for familiar flavors.
Varieties to Offer
- Plain Puto: Traditional white steamed rice cakes.
- Puto Pao: Puto with filling inside (usually asado).
- Kutsinta: Brown rice cakes with latik (coconut caramel) topping.
- Pichi-Pichi: Cassava-based gelatinous treats rolled in grated coconut.
Preparation Considerations
These items require:
- Advanced preparation at home
- Proper storage containers to maintain freshness
- Optional steaming equipment to reheat (though they’re commonly eaten at room temperature)
Profit Calculation
A batch of 50 pieces of puto costs around ₱150-₱200 to make.
Selling each piece for ₱5-₱8 gives you a profit of ₱100-₱200 per batch.
One student entrepreneur I know partnered with her grandmother, who was already making kakanin for their neighborhood. This collaboration allowed both to earn while preserving traditional Filipino recipes.
13. Hamburgers
Hamburgers have gained popularity among foods to sell in school in the Philippines, bridging traditional Filipino and Western food preferences.
Hamburger Varieties
Basic Burger: Beef patty with ketchup and mayonnaise.
Cheeseburger: Adding a slice of cheese to the basic burger.
Chicken Burger: Using a fried chicken patty instead of beef.
Longganisa Burger: A Filipino twist using sweet longganisa instead of a beef patty.
Equipment and Preparation
This requires:
- Portable grill or pan
- Storage containers for ingredients
- Assembly area
Cost and Profit Breakdown
Each burger costs approximately ₱25-₱35 to make (including bun, patty, and condiments).
You can sell each burger for ₱45-₱60, giving you a profit of ₱20-₱25 per burger.
A student I know started with just hamburgers and eventually expanded to include fries and drinks, creating a mini fast-food stand that became extremely popular during lunch breaks.
14. Fresh Lumpia
Fresh lumpia (vegetable spring rolls) stands out among foods to sell in school in the Philippines as a healthier option that still satisfies hunger.
What Makes Fresh Lumpia Appealing
Unlike fried lumpia, fresh lumpia uses a soft, crepe-like wrapper filled with vegetables like ubod (heart of palm), carrots, lettuce, and sometimes ground meat.
It’s served with a sweet garlic sauce and crushed peanuts, creating a complex flavor profile.
Preparation Strategy
Prepare wrappers and filling separately in advance.
Assemble fresh lumpia on-site or just before heading to school to maintain freshness.
Pre-package sauce in small containers.
Cost and Profit Analysis
Each fresh lumpia costs about ₱15-₱20 to make and can sell for ₱30-₱40.
This gives you a profit of ₱15-₱20 per piece.
One entrepreneur found success marketing fresh lumpia as a “guilt-free merienda” to health-conscious students and teachers, creating a unique niche in the school food market.
15. Buko Juice
Buko (young coconut) juice is a natural and refreshing option among foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially during hot months.
Selling Points of Buko Juice
It’s 100% natural, with no additives needed.
The coconut meat inside adds value and makes it more filling than other drinks.
It’s perceived as a healthy choice compared to sodas or artificial juices.
Logistical Considerations
You’ll need:
- A supplier of young coconuts
- Tools to open coconuts (or have them prepared by your supplier)
- Containers and straws
Profit Calculation
Each young coconut costs around ₱20-₱30.
After adding the cost of container and straw (₱5), your total cost is ₱25-₱35.
You can sell each for ₱40-₱50, giving you a profit of ₱15-₱20 per serving.
During summer months, a student vendor I know sold over 30 buko juices daily just by setting up near the school gym and sports areas where students needed hydration.
16. Kakanin Assortment
An assortment of Filipino kakanin (rice cakes and delicacies) makes for an excellent business among foods to sell in school in the Philippines.
Popular Kakanin Options
Bibingka: Rice cake traditionally cooked in clay pots.
Sapin-sapin: Layered glutinous rice cake with different colors and flavors.
Biko: Sticky rice cake with brown sugar.
Palitaw: Rice dough discs boiled in water and coated with grated coconut, sugar, and sesame seeds.
Business Model
Purchase various kakanin from local makers or prepare them yourself if you have the skills.
Create sampler packages with 3-4 different types in one container.
Pricing Strategy
Individual pieces can sell for ₱10-₱15 each.
A sampler package with 4 different types can sell for ₱40-₱50.
Your profit margin will be approximately 40-50% if you source from suppliers and 70-80% if you make them yourself.
A teacher I know started this business by partnering with local kakanin makers in her community, creating a win-win situation that helped preserve traditional food while providing income for multiple families.
17. Empanadas
Empanadas are versatile pastries that work well among foods to sell in school in the Philippines because they’re portable and customizable.
Empanada Variations
Traditional: Ground meat with vegetables and raisins.
Chicken: Shredded chicken with potatoes and carrots.
Tuna: Flaked tuna with corn and bell peppers.
Vegetarian: Mixed vegetables with cheese.
Preparation Process
Prepare dough and filling in advance.
You can either bake them fresh in the morning before school or fry them on-site for maximum freshness.
Cost and Revenue Analysis
Each empanada costs approximately ₱15-₱20 to make and can sell for ₱25-₱35.
This gives you a profit of ₱10-₱15 per piece.
A student entrepreneur created seasonal empanadas (like ube empanadas during Christmas or spicy empanadas during colder months) to keep her offerings exciting and maintain customer interest throughout the school year.
18. Nachos
Nachos have become increasingly popular among foods to sell in school in the Philippines, especially among high school and college students.
Nacho Package Options
Basic: Tortilla chips with cheese sauce.
Supreme: Adding ground meat, tomatoes, and jalapeños.
Mexican Style: Including beans, sour cream, and guacamole.
Equipment and Supplies
You’ll need:
- Containers for chips
- Separate containers for sauces and toppings
- Optional warming equipment for cheese sauce
Profit Analysis
A basic nacho package costs about ₱15-₱20 to prepare and sells for ₱30-₱40.
A supreme package costs ₱25-₱30 to prepare and sells for ₱45-₱55.
This gives you a profit margin of 50-100% depending on the package.
One creative vendor I know created a “build-your-own-nachos” concept where students could choose their toppings, which increased both sales and customer satisfaction.
19. Homemade Ice Candy
Rounding out our list of foods to sell in school in the Philippines is homemade ice candy, which is especially popular during hot months.
Popular Ice Candy Flavors
Buko Pandan: The Filipino favorite.
Chocolate: Classic and always in demand.
Mango: Sweet and refreshing.
Ube: Purple yam flavor that’s distinctively Filipino.
Preparation and Storage
Make ice candy in advance and freeze them solid.
Transport them to school in a well-insulated cooler with ice packs.
Cost and Profit Breakdown
Each ice candy costs approximately ₱3-₱5 to make and sells for ₱10-₱15.
This gives you a profit of ₱7-₱10 per piece, or a remarkable 150-200% profit margin.
During summer months, a student I know sold over 100 pieces of ice candy daily with minimal effort, as she could prepare large batches in advance and just bring them to school in a cooler.
Comparison of Foods to Sell in Schools in the Philippines
Here’s a quick comparison table to help you decide which foods to sell in school in the Philippines might work best for your situation:
| Food Item | Initial Investment | Prep Time | Equipment Needed | Profit Margin | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siomai | Medium | High | Steamer | 50-75% | Year-round |
| Fishballs | Low | Low | Fryer | 100%+ | Year-round |
| Kwek-kwek | Low | Medium | Fryer | 60-80% | Year-round |
| Sandwiches | Low | Medium | None | 40-60% | Year-round |
| Fruit Shakes | High | Medium | Blender, Cooler | 80-100% | Summer |
| Banana Cue | Low | Low | Stove, Pan | 50-70% | Year-round |
| Turon | Low | Medium | Stove, Pan | 50-70% | Year-round |
| Gulaman | Low | Low | None | 100%+ | Summer |
| Rice Meals | High | High | Food Containers | 60-80% | Year-round |
| Pancit | Medium | High | Food Containers | 30-50% | Year-round |
| Cupcakes/Brownies | Medium | High | Oven (at home) | 100%+ | Year-round |
| Puto/Kutsinta | Medium | High | Steamer (at home) | 100%+ | Year-round |
| Hamburgers | High | Medium | Grill/Pan | 50-70% | Year-round |
| Fresh Lumpia | Medium | High | None | 75-100% | Year-round |
| Buko Juice | Low | Low | None | 40-60% | Summer |
| Kakanin Assortment | Low | Low | None | 40-80% | Year-round |
| Empanadas | Medium | High | Oven or Fryer | 50-75% | Year-round |
| Nachos | Medium | Low | Warmer (optional) | 50-100% | Year-round |
| Ice Candy | Low | Medium | Freezer (at home) | 150-200% | Summer |
How to Choose Which Foods to Sell in School in the Philippines
Now that we’ve explored the 19 best foods to sell in school in the Philippines, how do you choose which one is right for you? Here are some factors to consider:
Your Skills and Resources
Cooking Ability: Be honest about your culinary skills. Some items like rice meals or empanadas require more cooking expertise than others like fishballs or ice candy.
Available Time: Consider how much time you can dedicate to preparation. Sandwiches and nachos require less prep time than fresh lumpia or homemade siomai.
Initial Budget: Some businesses require more startup capital. Fruit shakes need a blender, while ice candy only needs plastic wrappers and a freezer you probably already have at home.
School Environment
School Regulations: Some schools have restrictions on certain foods or selling activities. Check your school’s policies first.
Competition: Look at what others are already selling. Finding a unique niche can be more profitable than competing directly.
Facilities Available: Consider whether you’ll have access to electricity, water, or a designated selling area.
Target Market
Age Group: Elementary students have different preferences than college students. Younger kids might prefer sweet snacks like ice candy, while older students might want more substantial options like rice meals.
Schedule: Consider when your target customers have breaks or free periods. Morning classes might need breakfast options, while afternoon classes might prefer refreshing drinks.
Price Point: Assess what students in your school can afford. Some schools have students with higher budgets than others.
Seasonal Considerations
Weather: Ice candy and fruit shakes sell better during hot months, while warm foods like siomai and rice meals are preferred during rainy seasons.
School Calendar: Consider exam periods, when students might need brain foods or quick meals, versus regular school days.
I recommend starting with one or two items that match your skills and circumstances, then expanding as you gain experience and capital.
Key Takeaways About Foods to Sell in School in the Philippines
After analyzing these foods to sell in school in the Philippines, several important patterns emerge:
Highest Profit Margins: Ice candy, gulaman, and baked goods generally offer the best profit margins, often exceeding 100%.
Lowest Initial Investment: Fishballs, ice candy, and banana cue require minimal startup costs, making them ideal for first-time entrepreneurs.
Year-Round Popularity: Siomai, sandwiches, and fishballs maintain consistent demand regardless of season.
Least Time-Intensive: Nachos, fishballs, and buko juice require the least preparation time, making them suitable for busy students.
Most Versatile: Sandwiches, empanadas, and kakanin offer the most variety and customization options to keep your offerings fresh and exciting.
Success Factors:
- Consistency in quality and availability
- Cleanliness and presentation
- Value for money
- Unique selling proposition
- Customer relationships
Remember that the most successful school food businesses often start small and expand gradually based on customer feedback and demand.
Your Food Business Journey Starts Now
Starting a food business in school is not just about making money—it’s about developing entrepreneurial skills that will serve you for life.
Throughout this guide to the best foods to sell in school in the Philippines, I’ve shared options ranging from traditional Filipino favorites to modern snacks that appeal to today’s students.
The beauty of these business ideas is that they can be started with minimal investment and scaled according to your capabilities and customer demand.
Many successful Filipino entrepreneurs began their journey with simple school-based food businesses similar to those described here.
Whether you choose the high-profit margins of ice candy, the consistent demand for siomai, or the unique appeal of fresh lumpia, the key is to start with passion and commitment.
Ready to transform your culinary skills into a profitable venture? Select one of these foods to sell in school in the Philippines that matches your abilities and circumstances, create a simple business plan, and take that first entrepreneurial step.
Remember, every successful business starts with a single sale. Your school food business might just be the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey!
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