Most English secondary schools break healthy food rules, report finds

Most secondary schools in England are failing to meet healthy food standards, according to a new report. The analysis by the food charity Bite Back revealed that three-quarters of schools are breaking rules on food offered to pupils. Common violations include serving chips, burgers, and hash browns too frequently.

The report also uncovered "shocking" breaches such as offering sweets and crisps at breakfast time. These findings emerged just before a planned expansion of free school meals, raising significant concerns about the nutritional quality of food provided to students across the country. The charity was set up by chef Jamie Oliver.

The analysis examined food provided at nearly 400 state secondary schools. The widespread non-compliance with food standards highlights a systemic issue in school catering. Bite Back's findings suggest a need for stricter enforcement and better oversight of food policies in educational institutions to ensure students have access to healthy meals.