Nutritional Standards

Kent school meals are based on Government standards and contractors should at least match - if not better - these standards.

The food-based standards for school food (other than lunch) apply from September 2007. They apply to all food and drink provided to pupils during a school day (up to 6pm). 'A guide to introducing the Government's new food-based standards for all school food other than lunches' is available from the School Food Trust website.

Nutrient-based standards and new food-based standards for school lunches apply to primary schools from September 2008 and secondary schools from September 2009.

Jamie Oliver - Feed Me Better

Jamie Oliver is a huge supporter of the school meal service.  He is actively campaigning to get fresh, nutritious meals and appealing meals in all schools. Kent Schools have tried some of Jamie's suggested menus, which have proven to be very popular. To find out more visit the 'Feed Me Better' website.

Menu and portion size

KCC has developed a selection of menus that are based on home prepared seasonal produce. It is important that pupils enjoy the meals, the menus have been successful in schools. Fresh fruit and vegetables are available every day, bread is offered as an additional carbohydrate for energy and Friday is a fun day.

Quality of the Meals

Kent County Council (KCC) has a preference to use fresh produce wherever possible. 'Produced in Kent' is working with the South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) and other agencies to develop a supplier network.

The school meal specification also states that:

• peanuts and other nuts or their derivatives shall not be used
• the use of genetically modified food is not permitted
• the use of artificial colourings, preservatives and sweeteners is highly discouraged
• the use of hydrogenated or partly hydrogenated vegetable oil for frying is not permitted and as an ingredient is not recommended and not permitted after 1 September 2007 
• wholegrain foods or foods with added wheatgerm and/or bran should be used in preference to white or highly refined foods
• all food procured from the 6 sectors of agriculture production shall meet the Assured Farm Standard Scheme (red tractor) or an equivalent accredited scheme.

Milk

Local authorities are not obliged to provide milk to pupils but Kent schools are working with the "Cool milk at School" organisation to provide free milk to the under 5's and milk at a subsidised rate to these between 5 and 11 years old. To find out if your school has registered visit the Coolmilk website.

Free fruit and vegetables in school

The school fruit and vegetable scheme is part of the 5 A-Day programme aimed at increasing fruit and vegetable intake. If your child's school takes part, they will receive a free piece of fruit or vegetable every day at school. To find out more visit 5 A-Day.