New school food standards could mean more vegetarian and vegan choices for children

What do the new School Food Standards contain?

The updated standards, published in September 2026, put greater emphasis on pulses, vegetables, fibre and a wider range of protein sources. They also explicitly recognise vegetarian and vegan diets as dietary needs that schools should accommodate. 

The changes are due to come into effect from September 2027, with some requirements for secondary schools being phased in from September 2028. 

More pulses and plant-based protein for schoolkids

One of the most significant changes is a stronger focus on pulses such as beans, lentils and chickpeas. 

Schools will be required to serve pulses alongside all main menu items at least once a week. There will also be a requirement for at least one vegetarian main meal containing pulses on three days each week. 

Pulses are an important source of protein and fibre and can form the basis of nutritious, affordable and sustainable meals. The Government will also provide guidance with examples of vegetarian and vegan options, including plant-based alternatives. 

This is a welcome move towards greater variety in vegetarian school food. 

More choice for vegetarian and vegan children 

The revised standards explicitly recognise vegetarian and vegan diets alongside other dietary needs, including allergies, medical diets and faith and cultural requirements. 

This is important because every child should be able to access a nutritious and appealing school meal that meets their dietary needs. 

The standards also make clear that protein must be included whenever a main item is served. Cheese has been added to the protein food group, but cheese-containing main meals will generally be limited to two portions a week. 

This could help prevent cheese becoming the default protein source in vegetarian meals and encourage schools to offer a greater variety of plant-based proteins. 

However, the new standards do not introduce a requirement for schools to provide a vegetarian or vegan main option every day. This is an area where there is still scope for greater ambition. 

Plant-based drinks included 

The revised standards also support the provision of fortified plant-based drinks. 

Fortified pea drinks have been added to the permitted list alongside suitable soya and oat drinks, giving schools more options when providing plant-based alternatives. 

More vegetables and fibre 

The changes also strengthen requirements around vegetables, fruit and fibre. 

All main items will need to contain or be served with vegetables or salad, including options such as sandwiches, paninis and salad boxes. Schools will also need to offer wholewheat pasta on at least one day each week, while the minimum fibre content for bread will increase. 

These changes could help children get more of the foods that should form an important part of a healthy diet. 

Greater transparency over school food 

The Government also wants schools to be more transparent about the food they provide. Schools will be expected to publish their food policies and menus online, giving parents and pupils greater visibility over what is being served. 

This could make it easier to see whether schools are providing varied and appealing vegetarian and vegan options and whether the new standards are being properly implemented. 

How has The Vegetarian Society responded to the new School Food Standards?

The Vegetarian Society welcomes these steps towards healthier and more plant-rich school food. 

However, the revised standards do not require schools to provide a vegetarian or vegan main option every day, nor do they set a target for reducing meat consumption. 

The next step must be making sure the new standards are properly implemented and that children have access to appealing, varied vegetarian and vegan meals wherever they eat at school. 

The Government is encouraging schools to adopt the changes early and will develop practical guidance during autumn 2026. 

We will continue to work to ensure that school food supports children, animals and a more sustainable food system, and to push for greater ambition around plant-based food in schools. 

Read our blog on what’s needed to bring vegetarian and vegan school foods up to standard.