Minister proposes better school meals for better learning

Education Minister, Martin McGuinness, has launched a consultation document on the introduction of new compulsory nutritional standards for school meals and committed funding for training for catering staff involved in implementing the new standards.

Mr McGuinness: “Whatever our age, the food we eat affects our health. Encouraging healthy eating habits among children and young people contributes to healthy growth and development, and is an investment in their health for the future.”

The consultation document ‘Catering for Healthier Lifestyles’ contains proposed standards for schools at nursery, primary and post-primary level. Proposals include limiting the provision of chips to twice a week; serving baked beans no more than once a week; offering at least one type of fruit and one type of vegetable every day. The document also contains guidance on cooking methods, including advice on reducing fat and salt content.

Mr McGuinness said: We have no desire to ban any food, what we ant to do is to ensure provision of a healthy, balanced diet. These proposed standards do not ban any particular foods, but some foods do not make a significant contribution to overall nutrition and so should be limited. I know that the implementation of these standards will involve additional training for catering staff and I have embarked additional funds for this purpose.”

The consultation period will run until February 8, 2002. (CD)