Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Improving School Food Standards in England: Consultation Launch

13 April 2026 · Department for Education

Proposed by Olivia Bailey Lab Reading West and Mid Berkshire

Education

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The Department for Education is launching a consultation to update School Food Standards in England.
  • The proposed changes aim to reduce sugar and unhealthy foods while ensuring meals remain appealing and familiar to children.
  • The consultation period will run for 9 weeks until June 12, 2026.

Issue summary

The statement addresses proposed changes to School Food Standards in England to improve nutritional quality for children.

Action requested

The Department for Education is launching a consultation on updating the regulations to align with current nutritional guidance, aiming to reduce sugar and unhealthy foods while ensuring meals are appealing and familiar. The consultation will run for 9 weeks until June 12, 2026.

Key facts

  • National Diet and Nutrition Survey shows children consume twice the recommended amount of free sugars.
  • Over 10.5% of children aged 4–5 start school with obesity; by end of primary school, this rises to 22.2%.
  • Proposed changes include increasing fibre content in meals and snacks, reducing sugar content, and restricting unhealthy foods like deep-fried items and confectionery.
  • Secondary schools will have phased implementation for some changes.
  • Schools must appoint a lead governor for school food and publish their food policies and menus online.
  • Consultation period is 9 weeks ending on June 12, 2026.
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