World Apr 14, 2026 · 1 min read

School food standards pilot in England cuts meal uptake by 15%

Results of six-week trial prompt concerns over government proposals as children reject healthier mealsA pilot to test England’s new school food standards triggered a 15% decline in uptake of meals, with children rejecting healthier options in favour of a packed lunch, a caterer has revealed.The resu...

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The Guardian
by Sally Weale Education correspondent
School food standards pilot in England cuts meal uptake by 15%

Results of six-week trial prompt concerns over government proposals as children reject healthier meals

A pilot to test England’s new school food standards triggered a 15% decline in uptake of meals, with children rejecting healthier options in favour of a packed lunch, a caterer has revealed.

The results of the six-week trial, which took place at a Brighton primary school, have prompted concerns that the government’s proposals, though well-intentioned, could end up having a negative impact on children’s health.

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This article was originally published by The Guardian and written by Sally Weale Education correspondent.

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