The award, which has been achieved for a fourth year consecutively is for 37 sites, includes schools whose kitchens are managed by Blackpool Council’s Catering Services.
The Food for Life Served Here Award from the Soil Association recognises caterers who are serving meals that go beyond meeting the School Food Standards and ensure that children are being served meals that are not only delicious but also good for health, nature and the climate.
Councillor Jo Farrell, cabinet member for levelling up – people, said: “Parents can be reassured that meals served to pupils in Food for Life Served Here certified schools are prepared from fresh ingredients meeting high standards which have been inspected and awarded by Food for Life. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of catering staff to provide healthy, freshly cooked meals to school children across Blackpool.”
To achieve Bronze Food For Life, Blackpool Catering Services’ menus have been ‘transformed’, and now are full of meals that use fresh ingredients that are locally and sustainability sourced.
School kitchens now make their own pasta and curry sauces freshly daily, using ingredients such as tomatoes, carrots, peppers and other vegetables, avoiding the need for sugary pre made sauces and increasing the amount of fresh vegetables consumed by children.
Caron Longden, head of business development for healthy and sustainable diets, added: “Food for Life Served Here caterers are leading the way in improving food culture in schools.
“Achieving a Food for Life Served Here Award is a fantastic accomplishment and a true reflection of a caterers’ commitment to serving school meals that are nutritious as well as tasty. We know that good food is a crucial part of the school day and with fresh, healthy meals being served, students are equipped with the fuel they need for their learning and development.”