Tesco expands free fruit and veg scheme to more Oldham schools

Tesco is expanding its school fruit and veg scheme

The supermarket said its latest research shows less than ten per cent of children in the region eat five portions of fruit and vegetables on a typical school day, while 36 per cent of parents report their child refuses them altogether.

The findings also highlight factors that may improve eating habits. Around 72 per cent of parents said children are more likely to eat fruit and vegetables when they can choose them, and 78 per cent said making food visually appealing encourages them to try more.

Tesco plans to double its Free Fruit and Veg for Schools programme from September, with a further expansion planned the following year. The company aims to support one million children across the UK through its school and community schemes by July 2029.

Teachers involved in the programme have reported changes in behaviour, with Tesco stating that 94 per cent have seen improvements among pupils taking part.

The research suggests children often favour familiar foods, with fruit more commonly eaten than vegetables. It also found 72 per cent of parents have stopped buying certain items after repeated refusal. Pupils in the programme have tried more than 100 varieties of fruit and vegetables, according to Tesco.

To support the expansion, Tesco has launched the Giant Fruit and Veg Challenge, inviting children to create their own dishes using fruit and vegetables. The winning recipe is due to be included on school menus across more than 1,500 schools.

Tesco Group chief executive Ken Murphy said the initiative is intended to build long term healthy habits. He said the company is working towards helping one million children access free fruit and vegetables through its programmes.

Elaine Hindal, chief executive of the British Nutrition Foundation, said early diet plays a key role in long term health. She said encouraging children to enjoy fruit and vegetables from a young age can influence future habits and outcomes.

Tesco also said it will donate funding to support the scheme when customers buy fruit and vegetables in store until 24 May.