Nutrition trends continue to go the wrong way, especially among lower income households

Responding to today’s publication of the Family Food 2011 Report, Malcolm Clark, Co-ordinator of the Children’s Food Campaign, commented:

“With nutrition trends continuing to go the wrong way, especially amongst lower income households, how much longer will the government rely on half-measures and a failing leave-it-to-industry approach?”

“Given widely held concerns about the weakness of the Responsibility Deal, we have little confidence that the latest pledges on increasing fruit and vegetable consumption will have much impact, especially whilst retailers and manufacturers continue to heavily promote junk food and sugary drinks.”

“Even measures previously put in place to ensure children are getting access to healthy food are under threat.  The government’s free fruit scheme only covers children aged 4-6, and pupils at primary schools which have been converted to academies are less likely to be eligible for the scheme.  Academies are also no longer subject to the school food standards which safeguard the quality of food available in maintained schools.”

“Meanwhile, many families are struggling to afford school meals and a proper breakfast – both important elements in ensuring children’s wellbeing and academic progress.  When the new Universal Credit welfare system is introduced in 2013, free school meals should be available, at minimum, to all children living in poverty.”

Notes:

1.    The Defra Family Food Repot 2011 was published 13 Dec 2012 and is available for download from the Defra website

2. The Children’s Food Campaign aims to improve young people’s health and well-being through better food – and food teaching – in schools and by protecting children from junk food marketing.  We are supported by over 150 national organisations and co-ordinated by Sustain: the alliance for better food and farming.  For more information see www.childrensfood.org.uk