7 Dec 2007 - Minutes of latest SNAG (School Nutrition Action Group) Meeting
Minutes of School Nutrition Action Group (SNAG) meeting held at 4pm in Room 5
on November 29th 2007
Present: SCS Representative, Kate Morris, Jane Hawkins, Mrs Thompson, Mrs Tyrrell, Ms Mills and Mrs Sumption
Discussion was made of current situation re. provision of meals at Swanmead. Concern was expressed that pupils were unsure of pricing arrangements. SCS representative assured the group that this was being addressed and that changes in display of pricing should be in place by start of new term.
Labelling of foods and nut allergies were discussed. SCS representative explained that no nuts were used in the kitchen but that needs of clients with special dietary needs could be dealt with through negotiation, especially if the pupil is entitled to free school meals.
Provision of snacks such as cereal bars via a vending machine was discussed but SCS representative explained that cereal bars have high sugar content and that guidelines restricted provision. Cakes can no longer be sold at tuck in favour of a bread item. Discussion was made of pricing for tuck – did pupils receive half or a whole tea cake? This will be checked.
Pupils are unsure about pricing of meals. Also vegetarian pupils seem to have restricted choice. Is provision of vegetarian food sufficient? Discussion was made about provision of salad and position of salad in layout. SCS representative stated that pupils should be encouraged to have salad. Should salad/vegetables be put on plate when meal is served?
Pupils are unsure about what they are entitled to. SCS representative explained about the difference between a meal deal and additional food on offer. Jacket potatoes and tuna pasta are additional to the meal deals.
Concern was expressed that many pupils have tuna pasta everyday. Other options were discussed, along with the restrictions on provision of foods such as whether macaroni cheese had to be served as a main meal rather than a pasta option. SCS rep. will investigate the possibility of alternatives to tuna pasta.
SCS representative explained that pupils can order their food in advance at beginning of school day but it is necessary to ensure that pupils understand that they can. School needs to ensure that pupils understand the system via tutor groups.
Meals have improved since the Spring with better provision of vegetables etc. SCS contract has been renewed for another year and they would wish to continue if possible. SCS representative is happy to attend meetings and liaise to improve the service wherever possible. Questions were asked about training opportunities for kitchen staff. Basic cooking skills are given.
Questions about sources of food were asked. Supply of food is from local suppliers wherever possible although some vegetables have to be prewashed and cut.
It was agreed that better information should be given to parents/carers about provision of food. SCS representative suggested that a tasting session could be offered to packed lunch pupils and it was agreed that this was a good idea. Information on school website should also be improved and updated regularly. Menus should reflect that which is on offer. There should also be a hard copy of published menus made available to parents via the newsletter.
Discussion was made of pre-ordering food. As Swanmead is a middle school it does not operate along primary lines where parents order and pay for their children’s food in advance. However, would it be possible, if desired, for key stage 2 pupils to operate along primary lines and order food in advance but allow greater choice to key stage 3 pupils, allowing the free choices such as pizza and jacket potato for them – would it be necessary to change sittings if this scheme were in operation?
Mrs Thompson reported that she had visited a local school whose meals were provided by a local restaurant but that this scheme had proved a lot of work for the restauranteurs and would cease soon which was a pity as quality of food provided had been very good.
Mrs Thompson also reported on her research about the cookery bus and offers from a local supplier who would offer a session for pupils on sources of foods and Coombe Farm who also offered educational information about food. It was agreed that all three schemes should be explored further.
As Mrs Morris is leaving it is not yet known who will be assuming responsibility for organisation of future SNAG meetings but SCS representative will be happy to attend future meetings to discuss provision of meals at Swanmead.
Meeting closed at 5.10 pm