It was revealed last week (11 October) that 4.2% of 10-11 year-olds ‘severely obese’, up more than a third since 2006/7.
It said: “LACA are disappointed to see that severe obesity among year 6 children has increased by more than a third since 2006 to 2007.
“The meals provided at schools are nutritious, hot and healthy and follow the school food standards which limit the amount of fat and sugar served.
“Extending these standards to all schools, including academies is essential, especially as only 1.6% of packed lunches meet these nutritional standards.
“School leaders have reported that the profile of healthy eating has risen since the introduction of universal infant free school meals. We urge the Government to extend this to as many children as possible in order to tackle childhood obesity.”