The government is set to announce a ban on unhealthy foods in English school meals and vending machines.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


Education Secretary Ruth Kelly is to announce the ban, which will come into force from next September, during the current Labour Party conference, reported BBC News Online.


Foods containing high levels of fat, salt or sugar will be removed from meals and vending machines in schools in a bid to encourage children to eat more healthily.


Nutritional standards for schools in England are to be announced next week by the School Meals Review Panel, the BBC said. The standards can be introduced when they are announced, but will not become compulsory until next September.


“I am absolutely clear that the scandal of junk food served every day in school canteens must end,” Kelly is reportedly to say in her speech. “So today I can announce that we will ban poor quality processed bangers and burgers being served in schools from next September.”

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

In order to allow children to have healthy options throughout the day, there will also be a ban on vending machines selling crisps, chocolate or sugary fizzy drinks in schools.


School meals will be monitored by the schools inspection body, Ofsted.

Just Food Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Food Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Winning five categories in the 2025 Just Food Excellence Awards, Centric Software is setting the pace for digital transformation in food and FMCG. Explore how its integrated PLM and PXM suite delivers faster launches, smarter compliance and data-driven growth for complex, multi-channel product portfolios.

Discover the Impact