The UK School Chefs Survey Autumn 2024, Conducted by Panelitix.ai, provides insights into the current state and future prospects of school catering. Key findings from the survey include:
- 83% of chefs anticipate industry growth or stability, indicating overall optimism about the future.
- 69% of chefs report high job satisfaction, with an average satisfaction score of 3.8 out of 5.
- Rising food costs (58%) and staffing issues (21%) are identified as the most significant challenges.
- 92% of chefs rate school meals as highly important for children's well-being.
- 85% of chefs are compliant with Food Based Standards across their entire menu.
The survey was sponsored by Green Gourmet Ltd. Mike Hanley, managing director, said: "This survey provides valuable insights into the resilience and dedication of our school chefs. Despite facing challenges such as rising costs and staffing issues, their commitment to providing nutritious meals and their optimism about the industry's future is commendable."
The survey also highlighted a strong preference for UK-sourced ingredients, with 72% of chicken and 52% of turkey coming from domestic sources. Chefs predominantly opt for chilled meats over frozen, aligning with broader trends in food quality and sustainability.
A spokesperson for Panelitix.ai added: “As the industry moves forward, addressing funding pressures, staffing challenges, and balancing cost-effectiveness with meal quality will be crucial to ensuring continued success in providing high-quality, nutritious meals to students across the UK.”