The right answer to the problem of unhealthy packed lunches is free healthy school meals

12.01.10

GMB today commented on the report published today containing research by Leeds University that found 99% of school packed lunches were unhealthy.

GMB National Secretary Brian Strutton said “It’s no surprise that children’s school packed lunches are full of sweets, crisps and fizzy drinks because GMB members who work in schools have been telling us this for some time. This is not only a long term health problem, it affects day-to-day behaviour and concentration at school. Poor lunch provision directly impacts on the ability to learn.

GMB has been campaigning for universal free school meal provision to provide hot, healthy, nutritious lunches for all primary children. The government has been running trials in Newham and Durham which have been really successful and parents have been very supportive – indeed the pre-budget report announced that these trials will be extended. But this report shows that we should do more. Rather than wring our hands over lunchboxes the right way forward is to extend free school meals to all primary children.”