Fruit juices ban for primary tots

Councils ditch drinks from school dinners because they’re too sugary

PRIMARY pupils have been hit with a fruit juice ban due to health fears over sugar.

Juices have been ditched from all school dinners in primaries in Tayside after parents expressed fears over the drinks’ sugar content.

A memo sent to head teachers says fruit juice is the main source of excess sugars consumed by pupils at lunch. Pupils will be offered only water or milk.

The decision, taken by Tayside Contracts in conjunction with Angus, Dundee and Perth and Kinross councils, comes into force on March 31.

A memo from Tayside Contracts to school heads said: “It is frequently highlighted in school health and nutrition inspections, which are part of school HMIE Inspections, that an excess of sugars is consumed by pupils during lunchtime, the main source being the fruit juice that is offered.”

But the parent of one child at an Angus school complained that while fruit juice is being removed, sugary desserts are available.

The mum, who asked not to be named, said: “150ml of orange juice provides 58.5mg of vitamin C, whereas the desserts have little nutritional value.”

Fiona Mathieson, of Newport’s Dental Plus surgery, said: “Removing fruit juice is such a difference. People don’t always realise it’s not good for them.” NHS Tayside dietetic consultant Joyce Thompson said: “Although fruit juice and smoothies are unsweetened and the sugar comes naturally from fruit, they still provide free sugars.”

An Angus Council spokesman said: “It is a positive step towards healthier eating and improving oral health.”

A Perth and Kinross council spokesman added that puddings – available most days – contain “hidden fruit and vegetables to increase fibre and protein”.

The Scottish Government said councils have a duty to provide “balanced and nutritious” school lunches.

Dundee City Council and Tayside Contracts were approached for comment.