Community Union has welcomed news the Government will deliver “the biggest overhaul of school food in a generation”.
The changes have been developed alongside nutritionists and public health experts, with support from campaigners, charities and public figures, including TV chef Jamie Oliver and actress Dame Emma Thompson.
The updated School Food Standards will come into force from September 2027, subject to Parliamentary approval, and the Government has said schools should prepare to publish their new school food policy and menus on their website from this date.
Efforts to increase the amount of fruit, vegetables and fibre on offer in school canteens are among the proposed changes.
Community’s Director of Operations and National Secretary for Education & Early Years, Helen Osgood, said:
“Community welcomes proposed reforms to the school food system and asks that clear, practical guidance is provided to help schools publish their new food policies.
“Young people spend a large proportion of their childhood in school, so it is vital that they are provided with nutritional food that supports their learning and long-term wellbeing.
“Children deserve to have fresh food on their plate, but schools often opt for processed items as they prove to be a cheaper alternative. To ensure schools can provide students with well-balanced meals, we encourage the Government to ensure these reforms (and all other aspects of education) are properly funded through the forthcoming budget.”
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