00:00A new consultation has been launched by the Welsh Government that could change what's
00:06on the menu in primary schools all across Wales, and with school meals free for primary
00:10aged children across the country, it could impact thousands of young learners.
00:15The Welsh Government is asking for views on proposals to increase the amount of fruits
00:19and vegetables served in school meals, while limiting sugary desserts and fried foods,
00:23all in line with UK dietary guidelines.
00:26The goal is to ensure children are getting nutritionally balanced meals at school,
00:30while promoting healthy eating habits from a young age.
00:33Evidence shows that many children are eating too much sugar and not enough fruit,
00:37veg or whole grains, contributing to health concerns like childhood obesity,
00:41as figures show that as many as one in four reception aged children in Wales are overweight or obese.
00:47The proposed changes come as part of the Healthy Weight, Healthy Wales strategy,
00:51which is committed to updating school nutrition rules.
00:54Now that free school meals have been rolled out to all primary pupils in Wales,
00:57the Government says that the time is right to act.
01:01The Education Secretary, Lynne Neagle, said good nutrition helps young people perform at their best,
01:06in the classroom, in sport and beyond, and that these evidence-based changes
01:10will support both children's futures and Welsh food producers.
01:14She's encouraging parents, teachers, food suppliers and young people to take part in the consultation
01:19to make sure the new standards work for everyone.
01:23Public Health Wales is backing the plans,
01:25saying that stronger regulations could help form lifelong healthy eating habits,
01:29while also supporting the local economy and a more sustainable food system.
01:34Consultation is open now, with the hope that schools can help lead the way in improving children's long-term health across Wales.
01:40This is Peter Watkins, reporting for local TV.
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