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School Food Revolution: Deep-Fried Ban!
13 Apr
Summary
- Deep-fried items banned, sugary treats limited to once weekly.
- New standards update 2014 guidelines to combat obesity.
- Menus to be published online for transparency and compliance.
England is implementing significant changes to school meal standards, banning deep-fried foods and placing strict limits on sugary items. These reforms aim to combat childhood obesity and widespread tooth decay.
The updated guidelines, the first since 2014, will restrict desserts to once weekly, requiring them to contain at least 50% fruit. Unhealthy "grab and go" options like sausage rolls and pizza will no longer be daily choices, with fruit becoming a staple instead.
Main courses will shift towards wholesome dishes, and meals must include vegetables and salad. While deep-fried items are banned, battered or breadcrumb-coated options will be permitted once a week. The changes are planned for a phased introduction in secondary schools, with desserts limited to two portions weekly from September next year, reducing to one by 2028.
These proposals are now open for a nine-week public consultation. Statistics reveal that about one in three children are overweight or obese upon leaving primary school, and tooth decay is a leading cause of hospital admissions for young children.
Prime Minister stated that improving school food quality will support better health for the future. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson described the overhaul as "the most ambitious... in a generation." Prominent figures like Dame Emma Thompson and chefs Jamie Oliver and Tom Kerridge have welcomed the move.
