Falkirk West MSP Michael Matheson is backing proposals to make the food and drink served in schools even healthier.
It comes as the Scottish Government has launched a consultation on new recommendations made by health, nutrition and education experts, which are aimed at promoting healthy eating choices and tackling childhood obesity.
The proposals include offering a minimum of two portions of veg and one portion of fruit as part of a school lunch, lowering the sugar limits of foods such as breakfast cereal and yoghurt, removing fruit juice and smoothies from the menu, and limiting the amount of processed meat served.
Mr Matheson said: “While strict rules already apply to the nutritional content of the food and drink served in our schools, these recommendations to further cut sugar and put more fruit and veg on the menu can only help to improve our pupils’ diets.
“With more than 360,000 school meals served across Scotland every day, it’s important that we use this opportunity to encourage children to develop healthy eating habits, which can have a major impact on their long-term wellbeing.”
Education Secretary John Swinney added: “The proposals we are putting forward are based on the latest scientific and expert advice, as well as the views of local authorities, schools and catering staff. I urge everyone with an interest in school food to have their say.”
Go to consult.gov.scot/support-and-wellbeing/food-and-drink-in-schools to take part in the consultation, which is open until August 29.
