A revamp in the school food system in Wales is set to see an increase in the presence of fruits and vegetables on the menu, while also phasing out fried foods and sugary desserts. The Welsh government is striving to enhance the nutritional balance of school meals as part of a greater effort towards healthier eating habits.
New guidelines under consultation will address various aspects such as portion sizes, the maximum and minimum recommended amount of red meat, the reclassification of fruit juice as “not a piece of fruit”, and the prohibition of fizzy drinks. Public Health Wales has shown support for these proposals, recognizing the necessity of these changes in ensuring children receive adequate fiber and vitamins.
Presently, one in four reception-aged children in Wales are identified as overweight or obese, prompting the need for intervention. The Welsh government emphasizes the need for reduced sugar intake and increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains among children to combat this issue. Cabinet Secretary for Education, stressed the importance of good nutrition in enabling children to excel academically while also supporting local producers.
The move towards a healthier school meal system follows the commitment made by the Welsh government to review nutrition regulations, particularly after the implementation of universal free school meals in primary schools. Professionals in the field like public health dietitian Andrea Basu view these measures as crucial in establishing good dietary habits and safeguarding the well-being of children. The significance of food education is also highlighted, aiming to empower children with the knowledge to make healthy choices for themselves
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