The latest findings on the UK's Food for Life Partnership project (FFLP), which helps to make school meals healthier and educate children regarding the source of produce, were revealed at a conference last week.
Dr Judy Orme presented evidence from an independent evaluation made by the University of the West of England and Cardiff University.
The evidence showed that more than twice as many FFLP primary schools received an Ofstead rating of 'outstanding' following their participation (37.2 per cent compared with 17.3 per cent), while headteachers reported an improvement in behaviour, attention and performance of pupils.
The programme recorded an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption, with 28 per cent more primary school children hitting their five-a-day target.
In addition, 45 per cent of parents said that the family was consuming more vegetables as a result, with 43 per cent claiming to have switched to healthier and more sustainable choices when shopping.
Libby Grundy, director of the FFLP, commented: 'The UWE evidence shows that our programme has made a positive difference to improving diet and this in turn is having a knock on effect on behaviour and attainment. Yet, just as the programme looks as if it has reached the tipping point in terms of making a cultural shift, cuts to local authority school meal budgets – and an uncertain funding future for the FFLP programme itself – could undo all the good work.”
