Pupils are not eating healthy

3 months ago 07th Jul 12:10

School meals might be becoming healthier, but there are warnings from nutritionists that too many pupils are still buying junk food in local shops.

A study in two secondary schools found that 41% of pupils did not ever use the school canteen - and only 6% chose the hot lunch option.

In contrast, 80% of pupils bought food from local shops.

The study of eating habits was carried out by the Nutrition Policy Unit of London Metropolitan University.

In the wake of the warnings by chef Jamie Oliver, there have been efforts to provide healthier food in school canteens in England.

But researchers have found that many pupils are ignoring these nutritionally-balanced offerings and are preferring to spend their money in local corner shops and take-aways.

The study of two large comprehensive schools found that pupils were either buying food on the way to school or, where they were allowed, going out during lunchtime to buy snacks such as crisps, sweets, chocolates and chips.

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