Provision and Supply of Fruit to Government of Jersey Primary School Pupils

Description

The projects aim is to offer daily free fruit to all 5,426 children within all non-fee-paying primary schools within Jersey. Please note that Jersey is a Crown Dependency of the UK located off shore in the Channel Islands Latest records suggest that recommended fruit and vegetable consumption levels are not currently being met by 1 in 3 local children, and overweight and obesity rates are also increasing. Fresh fruit and vegetable consumption is an important component of a healthy diet. Sufficient consumption helps in establishing healthy eating behaviour, as well as improved social wellbeing and mental health. The Government of Jersey has recently implemented a hot school meal programme in all non-fee-paying primary schools across the island. This initiative ensures nutritious meals are available in all Jersey’s primary schools. Due to the success of the hot meal programme, the plan is to expand on this by offering free fruit to further ensure the availability of a well-rounded nutritious, healthy diet. Evidence shows that a free provision leads to higher uptake compared to subsidised schemes. By removing financial barriers, the programme encourages healthy eating habits across all socio-economic groups, supporting equity and helping all children access the nutrition they need to thrive. This tender invites suppliers and couriers to submit proposals for the provision of a consistent and reliable supply and delivery of fresh fruit to 22 Government-maintained primary schools. The initiative supports the Common Strategic Policy by ensuring children have access to healthy, nutritious food, while meeting specific requirements for quality, variety, and delivery schedules Keywords: Fresh Fruit Supply