Around 20-30% of high school meals made from ultra-processed foods

Tuesday, 11 July 2023 14:11

DESC figures show levels of ultra-processed items being served in Manx schools

Almost 30% of food being served in two of the Island's secondary schools is classed as ultra-processed.

The figures have been published by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture following a query about the meals it serves in Manx schools.

It comes after Garff MHK Daphne Caine asked for a breakdown of ultra-processed meals provided in primary and secondary schools by DESC.

At Ballakermeen High School, around 29% of meals are composed of ultra-processed foods, as rated by the NOVA food classification system, while at Ramsey Grammar School the figure stands at 28%.

Just under 24% of the meals served at QE2 and St Ninian's were in the same category. Meanwhile at 19%, Castle Rushen serves the fewest ultra-processed meals.

At Manx primary schools, items like fizzy drinks, deep fried foods and chocolate bars aren't available.

Of the 30 main meals and 15 desserts on the current primary school menu, seven are primarily composed of ultra-processed foods, which is around 15.5%.

According to the NOVA food classification system, ultra-processed foods are those which have been industrially formulated, often with additives and have high energy but low nutritional value.

Around 20-30% of high school meals made from ultra-processed foods

Share

More from Isle of Man News