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Written question asked by Sarah Gibson (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 4 November 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 11 November 2025. It was answered by Olivia Bailey (Labour) on Friday, 14 November 2025 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Schools: Processed Food

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether (a) the healthy schools rating scheme and (b) similar programmes consider the degree of food processing in assessing school performance on healthy eating.

Answer

The department is committed to raising the healthiest generation ever. The healthy schools rating scheme celebrates the positive actions that schools are delivering in terms of healthy living, healthy eating and physical activity, and supports schools in identifying further actions that they can take in this area.

Healthy eating is covered in science and design and technology in the national curriculum as well as in health education, as part of the relationships, sex and health education curriculum.

The School Food Standards restrict foods high in fat, salt and sugar, as well as low quality reformed or reconstituted foods. Governing Boards have a responsibility to ensure compliance with the School Food Standards and should appropriately challenge the headteacher and the senior leadership team to ensure the school is meeting its obligations.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
88082
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Nutrition Standards Processed food Schools
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk