School Lunches and Equity: A Food Systems Approach to Optimising Minimally Processed Food in England's School Food Standards
PhD candidate Melanie Southerden‘s research explores how to improve equity in primary school food provision, with a particular focus on increasing the availability and use of minimally processed foods (MPF) in English primary schools.
The project takes a systems approach, beginning with comprehensive mapping to understand the complexities of school catering provision and providers across England’s primary schools. Interviews with key stakeholders will be used to explore the underlying reasons behind the patterns identified in this map. In parallel, a systematic literature review and meta-analysis will examine interventions in high-income countries that have aimed to optimise minimally processed food in primary schools.
The ultimate aim of the research is to inform the development of practical toolkits for schools and local authorities, supporting them to design and manage catering contracts that prioritise healthier, less processed meals for all children.
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