The UK government has announced new plans to remove high-sugar and deep-fried foods from school menus in England, updating standards for the first time in over a decade. Proposals include restricting sugary desserts, banning deep-fried items, and limiting how often foods like pizza and sausage rolls can be served.

Schools will be required to provide more fruit, vegetables and wholegrains, with the rules applying to both breakfast clubs and lunches. The changes aim to address rising concerns around childhood obesity and poor diet.

These changes are supported by food campaigners, charities and nutritional experts including Bite Back, Tom Kerridge, Chefs in Schools, Emma Thompson and Henry Dimbleby. The government has also launched a 9‑week consultation on the healthier options with parents and children, alongside a new national enforcement mechanism to monitor the new standards and ensure they are applied consistently.