Higher uptake, not cash, is the key to achieving a sustainable school meals service in England, according to School Food Trust (SFT) chief executive Judy Hargadon.

Speaking to Caterer at a conference in Earls Court, London, last week, Hargadon said economies of scale meant meals would become more affordable if fewer children ate packed lunches. "The key is to educate children and parents and encourage them to make the right choices," she said.

Eden Foodservice managing director Simon James agreed to a point. "Yes, from a high-level view it's all about bums on seats," he said. "But it's vital that the promised cash gets through."

Food service consultant Vic Laws put more even emphasis on cash. "The Government's second wave of cash is an extension, not 'extra' money."

By Tom Bill

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