Changed school menus help farmers

Surrey Downs produce has been served in schools since September

Lamb and yoghurt produced by farmers in Surrey is being put on school menus in a bid to support local producers during the economic downturn.

South Downs lamb, produced from sheep on the Surrey downs, and Turners yoghurt has been available in all of the county's schools since September.

Councillor Peter Marin said it cut food miles and helped the local economy.

He said it was an "important step" in building relationships with farmers who provided wholesome, fresh ingredients.

"These producers all put quality at the heart of what they do so they make perfect partners," he added.

He said: "We are also reducing food miles and supporting the local economy at the same time during these tough financial times.

"We're always looking for more opportunities to feature regional ingredients and we also hope that it will encourage more children to try a school meal."

Fruit and veg

Surrey County Council provides 55,000 meals per day to 370 schools.

School meals in England's primary schools became subject to tighter guidelines from September.

Caterers drew up menus which conformed to strict nutritional guidelines on the amounts of vitamins and minerals young children need.

From next September, the nutritional standards will be brought in for secondary schools.

School food standards rose after fresh guidelines in 2005 limited the amount of processed meat, deep-fried and high fat foods served, and also required schools to provide more fresh fruit and vegetables.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version