New report shows schools in over half of London Boroughs are serving Food for Life Catering Mark meals

21 November 2011

The Soil Association's Food for Life Catering Mark provides a key benchmark for healthy and sustainable food provision in a new report compiled by London Food Link, a network run by Sustain.

'Good Food for London', lists seven key food issues and demonstrates the extent to which London Boroughs are addressing them. A fantastic 17 Councils out of 33 have achieved a bronze Catering Mark, with 8 going on to achieve silver. This means that freshly prepared food which is free from controversial additives and better for animal welfare, is being served to almost 150,000 Londoners each day.

The aim of the report is to celebrate best practice and encourage other Boroughs to take simple, affordable and effective action to significantly improve the health of Londoners, the livelihoods of food providers and the sustainability of the food system.

Stephanie Wood of School Food Matters, which is supporting schools working towards a Food for Life award, said:
"Schools that take part in Food for Life show real commitment to introducing children to good, wholesome food and understanding where their food comes from. Many also link their food activities to parts of the curriculum like science, geography, art and citizenship. In some cases they have even grown enough food for their school canteen to use."

Emma Hockridge, Head of Policy at the Soil Association, said:
"Food in schools, nurseries, hospitals and universities sets a vital example to support people in adopting healthy and sustainable diets. The Food for Life Catering Mark gives caterers a step-by step framework for change. The Food for Life Partnership builds on this work to educate and inspire children and their families about food."

To find out which London Boroughs are already committed to the Catering Mark and to read the full report click here and to check out the map of Borough's serving Food for Life Catering Mark meals click here