During this school year (2024-25), ultraprocessed foods made up more than half of the primary-school menus! Families pushed deeply influential feedback, and a Department of Agriculture survey learned that 58% of respondents wished much less processed food in school meals. In reply, the education department suddenly had a sense of urgency. Encouragingly, the survey found only 4% of respondents were against decreasing processed foods.
The recently launched menu includes dozens of healthy, colorful items. You can savor stunning meals such as sweet potato and coconut curry, roast Manx pork and rich pasta bakes. In a remarkable state-to-market moment towards healthier options, sugary desserts have given way to whole Manx milk and fresh local fruit. The new menu is now 5.3% processed food and around 25% local produce. That’s a big jump from 6.2% last year.
Daphne Caine, Education Minister, said these amendments are crucial for the health of children.
“By reducing ultra-processed food, the government better supports children’s long-term health and promotes healthy eating habits.” – Education Minister Daphne Caine
Our education department has some wonderful things planned, so stay tuned! They want to increase the amount of homegrown fruits and vegetables in schools to 25% by the 2025-2026 school year. This important initiative backstops local jobs and moves our carbon footprint in the right direction. Maryland Minister of Transportation Pete Caine touted its fit with these larger objectives.
Parents and guardians are overwhelmingly in favor of the new menu. Their excitement reflects a deep community commitment to fostering healthier food landscapes for children. The commercial price of school meals will be frozen in the new contract at the current £2.55, keeping barriers low while continuing to improve nutritional quality.
