You will be aware the DFE has now announced the review of the school food standards, with a 9-week consultation period commencing from the 13th April.
We welcome the review of the standards, but we agree they need to be realistic and appropriately funded.
The link to the consultation document has been placed on the website here.
It is crucial we get as many responses back as possible, so we are arranging a webinar for all industry members to join to enable us to share the key points from an association perspective but to also give you some practical help and advice on how may want to respond
We are proposing updated, modern School Food Standards that: (extracted from the DFE consultation launch document)
- Support healthier breakfasts and lunches across the whole school day.
- Increase fibre, reduce sugar and restrict foods high in fat, sugar and salt.
- Remove the reduced set of standards for maintained nurseries and nursery units within primary schools, where the early years foundation stage nutrition guidance applies.
- Promote healthy, nutritious and appealing food.
- Are inclusive of children with different needs, cultures, allergies and diets.
- Work practically for schools, caterers and governors.
Some key points to note are -
- To cease the practice (where it exists) any deep frying of foods
- To remove any sugary drinks from service
- To restrict any cheese recipes to a maximum of 2 per week
- To cease the supply of puddings for 4 days out of 5 and to be replaced with fruit
- To increase fibre in the diet by introducing more fruit, vegetables and wholegrain pasta etc.
Please come along and add your comments/support.
Thursday 23 April, 10.30am