School meals served in Brighton & Hove’s schools have been awarded Silver Status under the Soil Association’s Food for Life scheme. The upgrade will come into effect from November 2014, at no extra cost to the council.
The award is the result of new standards introduced by the Green administration, which require caterers to provide more local, seasonal and organic ingredients. The majority of meals are now freshly prepared, meat is from farms which satisfy UK welfare standards and all eggs are from cage-free hens. Healthier eating is also promoted across the catering service.
When in opposition, Greens pushed for the council to adopt Bronze status, and since taking administration have been working to improve standards again.
Councillor Ruth Buckley, Deputy Leader of the Council who pushed for improvements said:
“Time and time again research shows that healthy school meals are absolutely vital to helping kids study at school and get the most out of their school day. It also creates good habits for life. By improving standards, we are able to not only provide better school dinners, but also support local farmers and ethical producers.
“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to fulfil our pledge to improve school meals, and look forward to working towards gold status.”
Notes for editors:
More information on the School Food Plan, and work to provide universal free school meals can be read in the report to Children & Young People’s Committee on 13th October 2014
Information on the Soil Association’s Catering Mark can be found here: http://www.soilassociation.org/eatingout/cateringmark