Consultation DocumentThe Nutritional Standards for School Lunches and Other Food and Drinks in schools were developed in 2007 to ensure that all food provided in schools reflects government guidance on healthy eating. This was initially articulated in the Balance of Good Health which became known as the Eatwell Plate. The Eatwell Plate was updated in 2016 to reflect up-to-date research and government guidance on healthy eating and is now known as the Eatwell Guide. The Eatwell Guide shows the different types of foods and drinks we should consume, and in what proportions, to have a healthy, balanced diet.
It is important however to ensure that the standards remain current, taking into account the most recent evidence and changes in recommendations such as the Eatwell Guide, the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) reports on Carbohydrate and Health and Saturated Fats and Health; the Public Health England sugar and salt reduction targets, and the World Cancer Research Fund report linking processed meat and cancer.
The current Nutritional Standards were developed over 12 years ago and in that time the evidence and research has changed and it is important that we update the current standards to reflect Government guidelines. In order to do this we have developed, with the assistance of health and education catering partners draft updated standards and we are seeking your opinion on these proposed changes.
To view a short video on the consultation please click here.
We encourage you to respond using the online questionnaire found using the link below.
Comments using the response form available on the web link above can be sent by email or posted to the address below. Responses should be submitted to arrive no later than 5pm on Friday 27th March 2020.
Email: nutritional.standards@education-ni.gov.uk
By post to: Food in Schools Team
Department of Education
Room 6.06 Rathgael House
43 Balloo Road
Rathgill
Bangor
BT19 7PR