Food for thought: New school food standards on the horizon for state-funded schools

The changes will be relevant to maintained schools, academies and free schools, all of which are required to comply with the School Food Standards.

The proposed reforms are intended to reflect the latest dietary recommendations and would see schools required to offer more fibre, fruit and vegetables, while further restricting foods and drinks that are high in fat, sugar and salt. New breakfast standards are also proposed, with some secondary school requirements due to be phased in from September 2028.

Alongside the nutritional changes, governing boards should prepare for some new governance requirements. From September 2027, governing boards should appoint a lead governor for school food, and schools should publish their school food policies and menus online.

Although the changes are not due to take effect until September 2027, the DfE is encouraging schools to start preparing now by:

• reviewing the proposed changes;
• discussing the implications with catering providers;
• reviewing menus, contracts and procurement arrangements;
• planning for the appointment of a lead governor for school food; and
• preparing to publish school food policies and menus online.

The guidance also highlights wider developments in this area. From the start of the 2026/27 academic year, free school meal eligibility has been extended to all children from households receiving Universal Credit. In addition, following the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026, all state-funded schools with primary-age pupils will be required to offer a free breakfast club, with national rollout continuing throughout 2027 and 2028.