WHO provides guidance on healthy school food

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published a report providing recommendations for healthy and nutritious food in schools around the world.

The report shows that healthy food in schools can help children develop healthy dietary habits for life.

WHO recommends increasing the amount of healthy foods and beverages available, while reducing unhealthy foods. It also suggests limiting free sugars, saturated fats and sodium, while offering more whole grains, fruits, nuts and pulses. 

Other recommendations include implementing small interventions, such as changes in the packaging, placement or portion size of foods designed to encourage children to select healthier foods.

The report overview says: "The recommendations aim to increase the availability, purchase and consumption of foods and beverages that contribute to a healthy diet, and to reduce the presence and consumption of those that do not. The guideline emphasises that foods and beverages provided, served, sold or consumed at schools should be safe and support healthy diets, in line with children’s rights and national public health goals."