Local MP Daniel Zeichner and founder of SUGARWISE Rend Platings officially launched the SUGARWISE catering mark for school menus as the duo pop into the school kitchen to whip up a chocolate banana loaf.

The school dinner menus with a difference are low on sugar but big on taste. To meet SUGARWISE’s rigorous standards, caterers must provide daily meal choices that are low in the sugars that contribute to childhood obesity and tooth decay, plus every Tuesday is “SUGARWISE Tuesday” with a set menu with no added sugars in any dishes.

The meals have proved a hit with pupils and parents alike with a typical “SUGARWISE Tuesday” menu of Cajun Chicken Pizza with fruit coleslaw followed by a strawberry and banana muffin.

World Health Organisation guidelines state that sugar – either those added to food or sugar naturally present in honey, fruit juice and syrup – should be limited to no more than 5% of a child’s daily calorie intake.

Obesity levels in children are increasing. Nearly a quarter (22%) of all children starting primary school are being classed as overweight or obese and three fifths (61%) of five year olds show signs of dental decay.

Daniel Zeichner MP said: “This is an idea that started in Cambridge that is going nationwide. I welcome this scheme to help parents manage the sugar intake of their children and I can vouch that the healthier meals definitely tickle the taste buds so it is a real win-win situation.”