Schools in England are set to make significant changes to the types of food they serve, as part of the country's first major update to school food standards in over a decade. The goal is to reduce childhood obesity and tooth decay by limiting the availability of foods high in sugar and fat. One of the key changes includes reducing the serving of sweetened baked desserts, which must now either contain fruit or be served with it. This marks a shift toward healthier eating habits for students. Alongside the reduction in sweetened desserts, schools will also limit sugary drinks and foods like ice cream and waffles. Deep-fried foods, such as fried chicken and chips, will be cut back. Meals high in fat and salt, like pizzas and sausages, will also be restricted. In their place, menus will include more wholegrains, such as brown rice and oats, and pulses like lentils and chickpeas. These should appear at least once a week. Additionally, every main meal must include a portion of vegetables or salad, either as a side or mixed in. To ensure compliance, each school will be required to publish their menus and food policies online. Schools will also appoint a "school food governor" to oversee the quality of meals provided. The Department for Education will collaborate with the Food Standards Agency to monitor schools, with more details about the monitoring process expected in the coming months. A recent survey of over 1,400 school leaders found that 68% believe the new standards would be more effective if compliance were checked by independent bodies. The new food standards will take effect next September, with some changes for secondary schools delayed until September 2028. Currently, about one in three children leave primary school overweight or obese, and tooth decay remains the leading cause of hospital admissions for children aged five to nine. Education Secretary Lucy Powell described the changes as "once-in-a-generation," emphasizing their potential to improve children's health and learning. The update is supported by well-known figures such as chef Jamie Oliver and actress Dame Emma Thompson, who both praised the move toward healthier school meals.