Arabic version: لوائح جديدة لوجبات المدرسة تلغي الأطعمة المقلية في إنجلترا

Deep-fried food will be banned from school menus in England as part of new government proposals aimed at overhauling school dinners. The changes also include restrictions on high-sugar items, with fruit set to replace many sugar-laden treats throughout the week. The Department for Education (DfE) believes these measures will provide millions of children with healthier and more nutritious meals.

According to BBC News, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson described the initiative as “the most ambitious overhaul of school food in a generation.” The government plans to limit sweetened desserts to once a week while increasing the inclusion of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in school menus. These revisions mark the first significant updates to school food standards in a decade, following delays caused by the pandemic.

The changes will apply to both primary and secondary schools across England, with a phased approach for secondary schools to allow time for menu updates and staff training. A robust enforcement system will also be established to ensure compliance with the new standards. The final school food standards are expected to be announced in September 2023 and will take effect in September 2027.

While many support the initiative, concerns have been raised about funding. The Association of School and College Leaders emphasized the need for additional financial support to implement these changes effectively. The Liberal Democrats echoed this sentiment, stressing that funding for school meals must align with rising costs.

In addition to the food standards overhaul, the government plans to extend free school meals to 500,000 more children whose parents receive Universal Credit starting in September 2026. Furthermore, the DfE announced the opening of over 500 new free breakfast clubs, with increased funding per pupil to address cost concerns related to meal preparation.