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School meals popularity is benefiting North East economy say Council

As the number of children staying for school meals has risen in recent years, Gateshead Council say their policy of sourcing locally is benefiting the regional economy.

The Council’s School Catering Service holds a budget of £1.8 milllion, and gives preference to suppliers in the region.

Around 10,000 pupils need to be catered for each day.

A Council-produced map shows where fresh meat and poultry, eggs, potatoes, swedes and leeks are sourced in the region.

Councillor Angela Douglas said she thought a change of focus to provide nutritious meals from fresh ingredients had spurred increased take-up of school meals in the region.

The cabinet member for Children and Young People said: “Our policy of buying all of our ingredients from local suppliers not only means they are fresher and we know exactly where everything has come from, it ensures that local farmers and local businesses benefit from the money we spend. That’s got you be good news for the North’s economy.

“It also helps to keep lorries off the road, reducing unnecessary food miles and harmful carbon emissions.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .