Food standards

FRUIT & VEGETABLES

The school lunch will provide at least two portions of fruit and vegetables (at least one of which should be salad or vegetables and the other should be fruit).

It is recommended that children should eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day, however, dietary surveys show that children eat, on average, less than half this amount.

OILY FISH

Oily fish will be on the school menu at least once every three weeks.

Oily fish such as salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines and fresh tuna are a rich source of certain types of Omega-3 fatty acids which are thought to have several health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease.

DEEP FRIED FOOD

Deep fried products will not be on the menu more than twice per week.  This includes products fried during manufacturing.

Food that is deep fried absorbs a lot of fat and is therefore very high in calories and should not be eaten regularly.  Using alternative cooking methods is an easy way of reducing calories in children’s diets.

MANUFACTURED MEAT

Manufactured meat products will meet the Meat Products (England) Regulations 2003, (the regulations exclude economy burgers and certain offal).

Manufactured meat products can be very appealing to children and can offer useful sources of protein, iron and zinc.  However it is important that the content is wholesome and provides good nutritional value.

BREAD

Bread will be available on the lunch menu every day.

Bread is an excellent source of energy and many other nutrients and is a great way of satisfying healthy appetites.

SALT & CONDIMENTS

Table salt will not be made available, and other condiments will only be available in sachets.

Excessive salt in children’s diets can lead to many health problems and all opportunities to reduce salt intake should be taken.

CONFECTIONERY

Confectionery, chocolate and chocolate coated products (excluding cocoa powder used in baking) will not be available during lunch times.

Confectionery can be high in fat and sugars and adds significantly to a child’s daily calorie intake.

• Catering
• Food standards
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• Nutrition standards