Deep-fried food and high-sugar items first to be targeted in new plans to overhaul school dinners

High-sugar and deep-fried foods are to be taken off the menu for students as a result of new government plans to overhaul school dinners. This comes amid the health crisis facing children, with the plans aiming to help tackle childhood obesity.

Millions of children should benefit from healthier, more nutritious meals at school as a result of the changes. The government shared its plans to overhaul the School Food Standards on 13th April 2026, marking the first time in over ten years.

Currently, one in three children leaves primary school overweight or obese and tooth decay is the leading cause of hospital admissions for those aged 5 to 9. At present, sugary treats and deep-fried foods feature on school menus, no doubt contributing to these issues. The policy changes come after parent polling revealed that the majority of parents (three-quarters) are concerned about the food their children are eating. The government has responded with proposals to limit food and drinks high in fat, salt and sugar and to put more fruit, vegetables and wholegrains on every child’s plate.

The new standards were developed alongside nutritionists and public health experts and will apply to all breakfasts and lunches served by schools. Schools will no longer be able to offer unhealthy ‘grab and go’ options every day, while deep-fried food will be banned. Fruit will need to be served instead of sugar-laden treats for most of the school week. Sample menus include options such as spaghetti bolognese, Mexican-style burritos, cottage pie with root-veg mash, jerk chicken with rice and peas and roasted chickpea, vegetable and mozzarella wraps.

The government has launched a nine‑week consultation on the healthier options with parents and children, plus a new national enforcement mechanism to monitor the new standards and ensure they are applied consistently.

To find out more, read the full government press release here.