A Jamie Oliver-backed campaign to put compulsory practical food education on the school curriculum and combat obesity will culminate in Food Revolution day held tomorrow (15 May).
A global petition that will be sent to the G20 countries has amassed over 900,000 signatures, with Oliver urging people to ‘sign it and share it’.
“I urgently need your help to make a real difference. We’re currently facing a global obesity epidemic, with 42 million children under the age of five either overweight or obese across the world,” Oliver wrote in a public letter.
“The bottom line is the next generation will live shorter lives than their parents if nothing is done to rectify these alarming stats.
“So I’m asking that you do two simple things – first, please sign this petition to show your support for compulsory practical food education in schools across the world, then, most importantly, share it via your social networks.”
Food Revolution day has attracted celebrity support from singer Ed Sheeran and Olympic gold-medallist Usain Bolt, while countries and regions have hosted community events throughout May to promote the day.
Friends, office workers and families are being urged to host their own foodie events, challenge colleagues to a cook-off, host dinner parties or take kids to a local farmers’ market.
Any related pictures or events can be shared on social media under the hashtag #FoodRevolutionDay.
Schools are being encouraged to take part in a Food Revolution lesson on the day using free online resources that include a lesson plan, a letter to parents, a recipe, a certificate and instructions on how to grow cress.
