SCHOOL meal income in Argyll and Bute’s secondary schools has fallen by more than a quarter on average since pupils returned to the classroom in August, a report has revealed.
And a further downturn is forecast as a result of new legislation on healthy eating which is set to be introduced in April.
The Scottish Government is to roll out new regulations early next year which will increase pupils’ access to fruit and vegetables, reduce sugar levels, and set a maximum level of red and red processed meat.
In a report to the council’s community services committee, executive director Douglas Hendry said: “As schools returned in August 2020, the focus has been on a safe return to schools for all pupils and staff following closure during the pandemic, and there has not been any opportunity to restart the planned work to mitigate the impact of this change.
“Schools and catering teams are doing their best to deliver a revised service, and it will be challenging to carry out any face to face sessions with pupils while physical distancing restrictions remain, travel is discouraged and visitors to schools are minimised.
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“Since the re-opening of schools post-pandemic, school meals uptake in primary schools has declined by an average of 13 per cent, and in secondary schools, income has declined by an average of 27 per cent.
“This has been the case in schools across Scotland as social distancing in schools has changed how the catering service operates, parental confidence has dropped and managing school lunch service has been challenging for many schools.
“Early evidence shows that the implementation of the food and drinks changes is likely to cause a further decline in uptake of around 10 per cent, and an estimated loss of income in the region of £65,000.”
The new healthy eating regime is due to come into effect on April 8.
Mr Hendry’s report says the council has yet to decide which soft drinks to sell in the area’s secondary schools.
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