Written question asked by Andrew Snowden (Conservative) on Thursday, 21 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 1 June 2026. It was answered by Olivia Bailey (Labour) on Monday, 1 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

School Meals: Meat

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education, if she will update the School Food Standards policy to prohibit the use of meat derived from animals which have not been stunned prior to slaughter.

Answer

The government sets out required minimum standards for school food in the School Food Standards, to ensure that children are served healthy and nutritious meals at school. The standards do not specify food requirements in terms of cultural or religious needs.

We encourage the highest standards of animal welfare at slaughter and would prefer all animals to be stunned before slaughter. However, we respect the rights of religious communities to eat meat prepared in accordance with their religious beliefs. Schools must comply with the School Food Standards but retain flexibility in how they meet them.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 3993
Session: 2026-27
Subjects: Meat School meals Ritual slaughter
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

School Meals: Meat

Secondary information

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