Tuesday, September 12, 2006
BHF comments on Government's announcements on school food teaching
The BHF has welcomed news that pupils in England are being presented with healthier choices on the school dinner menu and in vending machines.
The Department for Education guidelines mean meals must include at least two portions of fruit and vegetables and deep-fried foods are restricted.
The government has earmarked an extra £240m to subsidise healthy ingredients until 2011 and school cooks will receive extra training.
From 2008, secondary school pupils will also be offered cookery lessons.
Ruairi O’Connor, Public Affairs Manager at the British Heart Foundation, said: "While today's proposals look fine in principle, ministers must make sure that children across the country, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, benefit equally.
"We’re passionate that all schools can offer cooking lessons, not just those with the best facilities.
"The BHF will also play its part through the second phase of its Food4Thought campaign, which launches on 22 September.
"The initiative challenges children to think about what is in their food, educating and empowering them to make heart healthier choices."
The Department for Education guidelines mean meals must include at least two portions of fruit and vegetables and deep-fried foods are restricted.
The government has earmarked an extra £240m to subsidise healthy ingredients until 2011 and school cooks will receive extra training.
From 2008, secondary school pupils will also be offered cookery lessons.
Ruairi O’Connor, Public Affairs Manager at the British Heart Foundation, said: "While today's proposals look fine in principle, ministers must make sure that children across the country, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, benefit equally.
"We’re passionate that all schools can offer cooking lessons, not just those with the best facilities.
"The BHF will also play its part through the second phase of its Food4Thought campaign, which launches on 22 September.
"The initiative challenges children to think about what is in their food, educating and empowering them to make heart healthier choices."
