Junk food to be banned in schools

Junk food is to be banned in NI schools

Legislation to ban foods high in fat, salt or sugar from meals and vending machines in Northern Ireland's schools is to be introduced.

The move by NI Education Minister Angela Smith follows a similar ban in England announced at this year's Labour Party conference in Brighton.

It is unclear when the ban will be introduced, but it will come into effect in England from September.

"There is clear evidence children who eat well will learn better," she said.

"While parents have the primary responsibility for shaping the eating habits of their children, I recognise the role schools can play in supporting parents and promoting healthy choices."

In England, the School Meals Review Panel will give details of the nutritional standards for school meals next week.

The review panel, an expert advisory group, was set up after a campaign to improve school meals by TV chef Jamie Oliver.