Campaigning for quality school meals

As a head teacher apologises for the poor food served out of his canteen, campaigners say it’s time to give pupils a taste of quality

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on The Telegraph

The headmaster of a secondary school in Southampton, Jason Ashley, expressed his dismay at the dismal quality of the meals served in his canteen, sparking a wider conversation about the state of school meals across the UK. Henry Dimbleby, co-founder of the Leon chain and author of the Government’s School Food Plan, raises concerns about the industry surrounding school dinners and its impact on quality.

Historical context

Decades after the introduction of mandatory food provision in British schools, the quality of school meals remains a contentious issue. From homemade meals to outsourced catering, the evolution of school dinners reflects broader shifts in food culture and policy, with notable interventions like Jamie Oliver’s campaign for healthier school lunches in 2004.

Despite efforts to improve school food standards, challenges persist. Rising costs and lack of regulation have led to concerns about the nutritional value and quality of meals served to students. Corinne Lambert, a veteran teacher, shares her observations on the state of school lunches, highlighting ongoing issues with menu options and food preparation.

Beyond taste and quality, there are growing concerns about the impact of school meals on children’s health. Reports indicate that a significant portion of UK children consume ultra-processed foods at school, contributing to rising obesity rates and potential long-term health implications.

Calls for change

Campaigners stress the importance of nutritious and sustainable school food provision in supporting children’s academic performance and overall well-being. Shona Goudie from the Food Foundation underscores the need for improved food standards and educational initiatives to promote healthy eating habits among students.

While the challenges are significant, there are examples from other countries, such as South Korea, Japan, Sweden, and Finland, that offer promising models for healthier school lunch programs. However, addressing structural issues and enforcing food standards are essential steps towards ensuring that all children have access to quality meals at school.