A Brexit Update from Our School Caterers – ISS:
As we approach the end of term, we’d like to take a moment to update you on ISS’ plans regarding the UK’s departure from the EU next month and how Brexit could impact our services. We have been working closely with our suppliers throughout the Brexit transition period and continue to engage with them regularly. Whilst we do anticipate challenges, we are confident we have plans in place which will help us to continue to ensure children receive nutritious lunches.
As part of our commitment to Food for Life Served Here we already source the majority of our ingredients from the UK, however, some items are imported from Europe – typically during periods of limited seasonal availability here in Britain. As we’re currently in mid-winter, this will likely result in some products being difficult to source next month. Examples include popular salad items like lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber, as well as broccoli and cauliflower.
If we encounter problems with sourcing such items, we’ll look to switch to frozen options or similar alternatives (where appropriate and available). We will aim to keep these swaps to a minimum and as close to the original menu items as possible.
We will continue to serve all children with special dietary requirements in accordance with their current agreed menu. If any product swaps are necessary, we will manage these in line with our existing robust safeguarding procedures to ensure all children continue to be fed safely. As per our current procedure, in the event of any supply failure, we will revert to our temporary special diet menu options to ensure that children can still receive a meal.
We will monitor the situation over the coming weeks and months and partner with schools to adapt to any challenges. In the meantime, if you would like more information or have any suggestions, please contact us at hello@feedinghungryminds.co.uk
Thank you and best wishes,
The ISS Team