28/03/2008

School's Out For Junk Food

The School Food Trust is to set in motion measures that will curb school children binging on junk food.

Currently in some parts of England, pupils have a choice of more than 40 fast food shops, with many targeting children with special lunch menus.

Chief executive for The School Food Trust, Judy Hargadon said: "At the moment school canteens have to compete with a myriad of takeaways, chippies and sweet shops for pupils' dinner money.

"We all know that some children will go out for chips five times a week if they are allow to.

"The problem is that this is damaging their long-term health, and is also threatening the viability of school lunch services."

The School Food Trust aims to stop fast food outlets from opening near schools and stopping pupils leaving the grounds at lunchtime.

A poll conducted by the Trust found that 90% of parents supported the idea of schools banning pupils from leaving the site.

However, some headteachers have warned that imposing the policy would be difficult.

John Dunford, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: "It is very difficult for some schools because of the sheer number of entrances and exits many have to watch to make sure children stay in a lunchtime."

The School Food Trust plans to implement healthy measures over the coming months.

(DS/JM)


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