England's Department for Education has introduced new dinner standards banning deep‑fried foods in all state primary and secondary schools, a shift in meals.

England's schools will no longer serve deep-fried foods under new dinner standards announced this week.

The Department for Education introduced the rules as part of a sweeping review of school meals. A government spokesperson said the standards represent "once-in-a-generation changes" for the nation's pupils.

The policy prohibits any deep-fried items from being offered in state‑funded school cafeterias. It applies to primary and secondary institutions across England and replaces earlier guidance that allowed limited fried products.

Officials explained that the ban targets foods high in saturated fat and salt, which health experts link to childhood obesity and related illnesses. By removing deep-fried options, the department aims to improve overall diet quality and encourage healthier eating habits among children.

School administrators are tasked with revising menus to comply before the start of the next academic term. The guidance includes recommendations for alternative cooking methods, such as baking or grilling, to preserve flavor while meeting nutritional targets.

Parents and teachers have welcomed the move, noting that it aligns with broader public‑health goals. Some school leaders highlighted the challenge of sourcing affordable replacements, but said they will work with suppliers to meet the new requirements.

Nutrition charities praised the decision, calling it a decisive step toward reducing diet‑related disease risk in the younger population. They urged the government to monitor implementation and provide resources for schools facing budget constraints.

The department will monitor compliance through routine inspections and will publish an annual report on school meal quality. The first set of data is expected after the upcoming school year, offering insight into the impact of the deep‑fried food ban on student health outcomes.