"Remove All Fattening Foods": UK Overhauls School Meals Amid Serious Childhood Obesity

Fried foods such as French fries and chicken nuggets are expected to completely disappear from school meals in the United Kingdom.

This comes as the UK government is set to overhaul school meals in an effort to address childhood obesity.

The new measures are scheduled to be implemented in phases starting as early as September next year.

'Fattening Foods' OUT

Deep-fried foods such as fish and chips, French fries, and chicken nuggets will be completely removed from school menus.

Previously, such foods were allowed up to twice a week,

but it was found that the standards were not properly observed in practice.

High-fat, high-salt processed foods such as pizza, pastries, and sausage rolls will also be restricted.

Desserts to Be 'Fruit-Centered'

Cakes, puddings, and ice cream will be allowed only once a week|

and more than half of all desserts must include fruit.

Beverages will be reorganized to focus on water, milk, and low-sugar drinks,

with fruit juice included in the list of excluded items.

Changing the Entire Menu Structure

All main meals must include vegetables or salad,

and the use of whole grains and legumes should be increased.

The goal is to reduce sugar intake and increase dietary fiber consumption.

Why Is the Government Taking Such Strong Action?

The background to this policy is quite serious.

About 24% of preschool and elementary school children are overweight or obese.

By the time students finish elementary school, more than 1 in 3 are classified as overweight or obese.

Children's sugar intake far exceeds the recommended amount,

and studies show that over 90% have insufficient dietary fiber intake.

Stricter School Meal Management

Each school will be required to publicly disclose its meal menus and nutrition standards online.

They must also appoint a person responsible for monitoring compliance with meal standards.

The government plans to finalize the new measures after holding public hearings and discussions.

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