Introduction. The JUNJI Food Program in the daycare centers covers 60% of the energy requirements of children (FAO/OMS/ONU 1985). In this work, energy intake at JUNJI and home was studied. Methods. Intake was measured by food weighing of the three meals provided at JUNJI and by recall at home, in order to assess its adequacy. Results. The energy intake during week in boys is 1738 ( 269 kcal and in girls is 1545 ( 211 kcal in girls (similar to present energy requirements). At the weekend, the children energy intake is significantly higher (2105 ( 434 kcal and 2093 ( 312 kcal), exceeding their requirements. This energy imbalance seems mainly due to the significant higher fat intake at weekends (74 ( 28 g vs 48 ( 10 g, p<0.002) compared to the weekdays, which is higher in boys. Conclusions. Children are at balance during the week, but an excess energy intake is produced at weekends. The excess has a main contribution from fat intake, which increases at weekends. The day care center seems to protect children in term of energy intake. This situation is worrying and nutritional education for parents must be put in practice urgently.