A report, co-authored by Professor Naveed Sattar of the University of Glasgow and published in the British Medical Journal today, reveals that pupils who eat school dinners can be healthier than those who bring lunches from home.

The results showed that pupils who ate school dinners had lower levels of several risk markers for chronic disease, including blood cholesterol, blood sugar and insulin. Their level of a hormone called leptin, which is associated with fat tissue, was also lower.

The results contradict recent public concern over the nutritional value of school dinners, prompted in part by a high profile television series fronted by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, and follow the government's announcement of a ban on the sale of so-called junk food in schools.

However the research also revealed that levels of folate - found in foods including spinach, fresh fruit, liver, and yeast - were found to be lower among pupils eating school dinners and it was suggested that the levels of folate in school dinners should be raised.

The report suggests the best way to improve children's diet may be to focus on the food they are given at home - rather than at school.

Kate Richardson (K.richardson@admin.gla.ac.uk)

For more information please contact the University Press Office on 0141 330 3535 or email pressoffice@gla.ac.uk

First published: 6 October 2005