Deep-fried food banned under new school dinner rules in England
The UK government has announced a major overhaul of school food standards, including a ban on deep-fried foods and stricter limits on processed meats and sweet desserts. These changes, effective in 2027, aim to combat childhood obesity and improve student nutrition and concentration.
Why it matters
This policy represents a significant state intervention in public health and education, setting new nutritional benchmarks for millions of students.
Published 13 September 2026 Updated 1 hour ago By Hayley Clarke and Beth Rose , Education reporters There will be a boost for fresh fruit and vegetables and deep-fried food will be banned in what the government has called the biggest shake-up to school dinners in England in over a decade.
Under new school food standards, fibre and wholegrains will also be increased, and breakfast clubs will have to follow nutrition rules for the first time, with schools also being monitored.
The Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) welcomed the changes, but said they hoped the new rules would not become "another stick with which to beat head teachers".
The changes will come into effect from 2027 and be funded with existing money for schools, the government said.
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