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Improving School Food Standards in England: Consultation Launch
13 April 2026
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Education
TAGS
At a Glance
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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