Food and Nutrition Education, Policy and Training in the UK

摘要

In the context of child health in the UK, the focus is centered on childhood obesity, with one in 10 children aged 4-5 years being overweight or obese, rising to one in 3 children by the age of 11 -15 years. There is also a concern with micronutrient deficiency, as well as low levels of fruit and vegetable consumption. Many children are also not reaching the recommended 1 h of physical activity per day. The UK government has introduced a number of measures through the Childhood obesity - a plan of action, including a sugar reformulation program, updating marketing restrictions to children, promoting physical activity, and updating school food standards. While the curriculum in England specifically includes "cooking and nutrition," giving schools greater direction and flexibility in their approach, research indicates that since its introduction in 2014 there has been no change (or a decrease) in lesson length, funding, and teaching resource provision. There also appears to be concerns in relation to initial teacher training and professional development. However, a number of organizations provide schools with support, enabling them to ensure pupils receive, and are able to apply, relevant food skills and knowledge for them to lead healthy lives.