Eat smart: Chefs and caterers attend a cooking workshop to improve the nutritional value of schoolchildren's lunches.

A selection of chefs and caterers have attended a cooking workshop to improve the nutritional value of schoolchildren's lunches.

Fifty-four chefs and staff from 22 school lunch suppliers attended the two-day course organised by the Department of Health and the Vocational Training Council. It heightened their awareness of the nutritional requirements of schoolchildren aged six to 12.

Practical issues commonly encountered in the preparation of food served in lunch boxes were also raised in the workshop to find workable solutions.

The department said a healthy balanced school lunch helps children learn effectively and prevent disease. It is therefore important that suppliers know how to prepare tasty and healthy meals. Parents should encourage their children to choose and develop healthy meals.