A NEW YouGov poll commissioned by the NFU of more than 1,100 parents found that parents want to see more British food served in school meals and more lessons on food and farming.

The survey was released to coincide with National School Meals Week, taking place this week.

Eighty-seven per cent of parents thought at least half the ingredients in British school meals should be British. The survey also found that 88 per cent of parents thought it very important that their children are taught about how food is produced on farms and where it comes from, as part of the school curriculum.

NFU deputy-president Minette Batters, who farms near Downton, said: “As a mum myself the results of this survey come as no surprise. It’s great that many parents are as passionate as me about the origin of school meals and their children being able to access a nutritious meal at lunchtime.”

She said the NFU is encouraging head teachers to engage with their catering provider and supply chain to procure more British food, which is easily recognised by the Red Tractor logo.

“It’s pleasing to see that 78 per cent of parents will take up the offer of free school meals now available to all pupils up to the age of seven.

“The NFU will continue to play our part in ensuring schools source more British food and helping to focus ideas to provide a strong platform to build a bright future for our children – not just for lunch but through cooking and food education.”