Council officials in Shetland have encountered significant opposition from parents following the introduction of vegetarian-only days and a revamped school menu. The changes see traditional favorites such as steak pie and roast chicken replaced with dishes including rainbow lasagne, Quorn Turkish pasta, lentil dal with speckled basmati rice, and buffalo cauliflower wings.
Dozens of formal complaints have been lodged, with over 40 communications from parents expressing anger. Critics argue that children are unlikely to embrace the new vegetarian options, leading to increased food waste. Parent Rebecca Webb stated her intention to provide packed lunches for her children, while Louisa Newlands suggested that canteen staff might be frustrated by uneaten meals. Some parents also expressed a desire to return to more traditional meals from their own childhoods, accompanied by familiar puddings.
Davy Porter questioned the names and nature of dishes like rainbow lasagne and cauliflower buffalo wings on social media. Tan Addams reported that only 13 out of 35 available dinners were booked for the term until the October holidays, with the remaining 22 children opting for packed lunches, indicating a perceived lack of appeal in the new offerings.
Despite the backlash, some parents have defended the menu, which also includes options such as chicken goujons, cheese pizza, and chicken curry. The Shetland Islands Council serves over 2,000 lunches daily across its nursery, primary, and secondary schools, with all menus adhering to Scottish Government regulations. The council noted that while nutritional standards are paramount, menu popularity is also taken into consideration.
Children in primary one through five receive free meals, while parents of children in P6 and P7 pay £2.60 per meal. A spokesperson for Shetland Islands Council stated that the menu choices meet national nutritional standards and offer a varied and affordable selection. The council aims to encourage healthy eating habits with a balanced mix of ingredients and meal options, incorporating both traditional favorites and newer dishes that reflect dietary trends.
"We will consider any feedback received and monitor the introduction of this menu over the coming months," the spokesperson added. The council clarified that rainbow lasagne contains colorful vegetables and that cauliflower buffalo wings are a popular choice in commercial restaurants.