England to ban deep-fried food in school meals under new standards

England is set to overhaul its school food standards, introducing a ban on deep-fried food in school meals. The Department for Education confirmed the updated standards on Monday, 14 September, as part of a broader government push to improve children's health.

What will change

Under the new standards, deep-fried food such as chips, battered fish and fried chicken will no longer be permitted as part of school lunch menus in state-funded schools in England. Schools will be required to offer meals that meet updated nutritional criteria, with a greater emphasis on vegetables, wholegrains and lean protein. The standards will also limit salt and saturated fat content in school meals.

Government rationale

Ministers said the changes are a key part of the government's strategy to tackle childhood obesity, which affects around one in five children by the time they finish primary school in England. Health officials noted that improving school food is one of the most effective interventions available given the number of meals children eat at school each year.

Implementation

Schools will be given a transition period to update their menus and catering arrangements. The government said it would provide guidance and support to help school caterers adapt. The new standards are expected to be in full effect from the next academic year.