The schools’ programme is part of a wider campaign to double the UK’s bean, pulses and legumes consumption run in partnership with The Food Foundation and Beans is How, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.
Veg Power says eating more beans, lentils and pulses is a simple and affordable way to eat more healthily. These foods are high in fibre - a nutrient that only 14% of children aged four to ten years-old in the UK are getting enough of.
They are also good for our planet as they have low carbon footprints and their nitrogen-fixing qualities reduce the need for fertilisers. Despite these benefits, current consumption figures of beans in the UK are low with only 25% of the population regularly eating them.
‘The Big Bean Boost’ is a three-year programme to encourage pupils to give beans a try and for the catering teams to increase the variety and frequency of beans on the menu. It will be fully-funded in 750 primary schools with an emphasis on lower income communities.
While November will feature as a strong promotional period each year, schools will receive ongoing support, activities and resources to maintain a focus on beans throughout the entire school year.
Dan Parker, chief executive of Veg Power, said: “We’re dedicated to making healthy, sustainable eating easier so we can’t wait to get started on this new campaign to get the UK eating more beans. Not only will beans support an improvement in dietary health but they are also good for our planet and stretched budgets.
“We have drawn on our experience running campaigns in schools to develop fresh and exciting creative ideas for The Big Bean Boost that we are confident will get children eating more beans in school and at home - improving their dietary health while being kinder on their family’s food budget. Thank you in advance to all the catering teams and schools who have already signed up to participate.”
This campaign has received a 3 year grant of almost £1.4m from The National Lottery Community Fund, the UK’s largest funder of community activity, and aims to reduce the impact of diets on greenhouse gas emissions, whilst creating a long-term shift towards healthier and more sustainable dietary habits.