Plans to develop and introduce standards for school meals are under discussion.

The Department for Education and Skills is considering how best to phase in the 35 recommendations drawn up by the School Meals Review Panel in September.

Nine food-based standards were listed in the "Turning the Tables" report including a requirement to provide each child with at least two portions of fruit and vegetables.

The report stated that schools should aim to provide a hot meal every lunchtime, cooked on-site from fresh and seasonal products.

"The procurement of food served in schools should be consistent with sustainable development principles and schools and caterers should look to local farmers and suppliers for their produce where possible," it said.

The review is also recommending that schools strengthen supply links with local producers to improve pupils' knowledge about cooking and growing food.

It said added costs should be considered against economic benefits including a boost to local producers and a reduction in transport and infrastructure costs.

And catering staff will benefit from working longer hours to accommodate the use of more fresh ingredients, it claimed.