The food that can be served in schools is changing so that every
child in Wales has access to a balanced diet in school.
A consultation has launched today seeking views on the proposals
which will see primary school menus increase fruit and
vegetables, helping more Welsh children get their five-a-day, and
limit sugary desserts, and fried foods, in line with UK dietary
guidelines.
The new proposals will ensure children are offered nutritionally
balanced school food and drink, and that healthy eating is
promoted in schools with the aim of improving health, wellbeing
and attainment.
The evidence shows that, on average, children eat too much sugar
and don't eat the recommended amounts of fruit, vegetables and
wholegrains. This contributes to health issues such as childhood
obesity and currently one in four reception-aged children are
categorised as overweight or obese.
Action is being taken across the Welsh Government to make the
healthy choice the easy choice. The Healthy Weight: Healthy Wales
strategy committed the Welsh Government to reviewing the
regulations on school food nutrition which apply in all
maintained schools in Wales. Now that the roll out of universal
primary free school meals in Wales has been completed, the Welsh
Government is fulfilling this commitment, starting with primary
schools.
The Cabinet Secretary for Education, said:
“Good nutrition is vital for helping young people perform at
their best - whether in the classroom, on the pitch, or pursuing
their goals. Our evidence-based changes to school food rules will
help give Welsh children the best start in life while supporting
Welsh producers and nurturing a generation of healthy eaters to
safeguard the future of our NHS.
Schools and catering teams across Wales are already working hard
to provide nutritious meals for our children and young people. We
want to build on the good work already happening to further
ensure every child in Wales has access to healthy food This is
why I want to hear from parents, teachers, suppliers, and young
people. By working together, we can create school food standards
that work for everyone - supporting our children's health today
and for their future.”
Rachel Bath, Consultant in Public Health for Public Health Wales,
said:
“Public Health Wales welcomes these proposals for Primary
Schools. We know from the evidence that school food standards can
positively impact children's health and wellbeing when used
alongside a range of approaches. Strengthening these Regulations
is a vital step to ensure school food supports lifelong healthy
eating habits. We know there is work to do to give all children
access to nutritious meals alongside food education and positive
dining experiences. These changes not only support
children's health but also contribute to a more sustainable food
system and local economy. With continued collaboration and clear
oversight, school food can be a powerful driver of long-term
health and well-being in Wales.”
ENDS
Notes to editors
Notes
The consultation on proposed changes to the Healthy Eating in
Schools (Nutritional Standards and Requirements) (Wales)
Regulations 2013 will be live on 20th May here
The consultation is open for 10 weeks.
Consultation responses will help inform:
- New regulations for primary school food and drink
- New guidance on promoting healthy eating in schools
- Future plans for improving secondary school food regulations
The Healthy Eating in Schools (Nutritional Standards and
Requirements) (Wales) Regulation have not been updated since
2013.
