Fruit juice and white bread off the menu at primary schools

FRUIT juice, white bread and sugary cereals are among foods to be banned in primary schools in Wales under major changes proposed for healthier eating.

- By ABBIE WIGHTWICK

Sugary puddings, cheese and processed meats such as gammon and ham will also be limited but red meat “a great source of iron” - and fish must be served once a week.

The Welsh Government is proposing the huge changes in what food can be served in schools from 2026-27 in a consultation launched yesterday.

The plans would also see more fruit and vegetables on primary school menus to help meet the target of five a day and there would be fewer saturated fats and sugars.

Bread, pasta, and noodles would have to be 50% wholegrain, while fried potato products, such as chips, could only be served once a week.

Portion sizes would also be changed from the current one-size-fits-all approach for primary-aged children to serving smaller meals for infants, with larger portions for those of junior age.