Welsh council introduces school menu based on local produce

With support from the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools initiative, Caerphilly was one of six counties, including Wrexham, Flintshire, Anglesey, Gwynedd and Cardiff, to use more locally sourced ingredients in their St David’s Day dinner menus. 

Now, following the success of the initiative, the council has almost doubled the amount it spends on Welsh produce. 

Marcia Lewis, principal officer for Caerphilly’s catering service, said they have made huge strides in the two years since the Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) programme was rolled across Wales to help combat the cost-of-living crisis. 

She said: “Looking back over this period, it’s fantastic to see the progress Caerphilly has made. We were fortunate to hit our target a year ahead of schedule, which was a true reflection of the commitment and determination of all involved in making it a great success. 

“All this was achieved whilst prioritising the use of local produce on school menus, which not only enhances the project’s value for pupils but also supports the local economy and promotes sustainability.” 

Setting a positive precedent

Ms Lewis added that the dedication to provide free meals to all primary-aged pupils means Caerphilly is setting a “positive precedent for other authorities”. 

“Access to nutritious meals is crucial for children’s development, learning, and well-being, and our proactive approach showcases a commitment to making a meaningful difference in learners’ lives whilst increasing local products and the supply chain,” she continued. 

Among the companies supplying the schools are Llaeth y Llan village dairy, Woosnam Dairies, Brace’s Family Bread, Castell Howell, The Celtic Pie Co, Ellis Eggs, Celtica, Authentic Curries and World Foods, Celtic Pride, Langford’s, Popty Bakery, Bishop, Dragon, Mario’s Welsh ice cream, and Farm Fresh meat specialists. 

The news of Caerphilly’s achievement coincides with LACA’s National School Meals Week (NSMW24) that promotes the role school meals play in children’s mental wellbeing as well as physically and academically, with events and activities taking place across the UK. 

Incredible food and drink producers all over Wales

Menter Môn’s food project manager David Wylie said that the Caerphilly model could now be replicated by other local authorities in Wales. 

He added: “They have shown a real determination to make this work and been a huge supporter of local producers in their region, which is demonstrated by both the uplift in spend and the number of pupils signing up for free school meals. 

“We are working side-by-side with them and other councils to instil change, boost local economies and bolster supply chains while promoting sustainability and helping families at a challenging time economically. 

“We have incredible food and drink producers all over Wales, and it’s important we get behind them while ensuring future generations have access to nutritious, affordable food and drink – this is a fantastic first step in that direction.” 

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