Ban on Fruit Juice in Schools: Warning That Draws Attention from Experts

In the UK, new decisions taken in schools to combat childhood obesity have sparked debate among dietitians and nutrition experts. According to the government's new school meal plan, fruit juice and low‑calorie sweetened drinks are banned in primary schools to reduce children's sugar consumption.

With the regulation coming into force from next September, primary schools will be allowed to serve only water, milk and plain fermented milk drinks. In addition, fried foods will be banned entirely, and each meal will be required to include vegetables or salad. Menus will also feature fiber‑rich legumes such as lentils and chickpeas at least once a week.

Experts' Response: "Targeting Vitamin C Sources"

However, the decision was criticized by experts who argued it could negatively affect children's nutrition. Nutritionist Rob Hobson, who said a daily 150‑milliliter portion of 100% pure fruit juice should not be demonized in children, emphasized that this amount provides vitamin C and other beneficial nutrients. Hobson said a small portion is not concerning for children's health.

Similarly, Andy Bagnall, Executive Director of the UK Soft Drinks Association, argued that the ban would backfire. Pointing out that only 6% of children in low‑income households meet the daily fruit‑and‑vegetable consumption target, Bagnall said:

"Removing fruit juice from school menus could worsen existing nutritional inequalities. Seventeen percent of children lack vitamin C, and twelve percent are deficient in folate (vitamin B9). Eliminating an accessible vitamin source could make it harder for some children to achieve a healthy diet."

Sugar Ratio and Health Risks

Current NHS (British National Health Service) guidelines permit children aged five and older to drink one cup of unsweetened fruit juice or smoothie per day alongside meals. Experts note that a small cup of fruit juice contains roughly three and a half teaspoons of natural sugar. While sugar remains locked within the fiber in all fruits, pressing the fruit removes the fiber and allows the sugar to enter the bloodstream rapidly, which underpins the rationale for this restriction.

However, vitamin C is known to strengthen the immune system and, in particular, to aid iron absorption that supports brain functions, memory, and concentration.

Gradual Ban Expands

The new rules, set to take effect in primary schools in September 2027, will be implemented gradually in secondary schools. Initially, secondary schools will allow fruit juice with a daily maximum of 150 ml, while a complete ban is planned from September 2028.

According to data from the National Child Measurement Programme, more than 40 % of children leaving primary school are overweight or obese. Officials argue that children aged seven consume more than three times the recommended sugar amount, asserting that these radical steps are unavoidable to protect children's health.

Do you think banning fruit juice in schools is an effective step in protecting children's health, or does it mean restricting important sources of nutrition?