More Burnham-On-Sea pupils will soon be getting a healthy boost to their school day as Tesco expands its Free Fruit & Veg for Schools programme across the area.
The supermarket giant has confirmed that from September it will double the number of schools taking part, with plans to double the scheme again the following year. It comes as new research shows many children are still falling short of their recommended five-a-day.
Tesco’s survey found that while youngsters often stick to familiar favourites, 71% of parents and carers in the region say their child is more likely to eat fruit and veg when they can choose it themselves. A further 80% say making food fun or visually creative helps encourage children to try more.
Local teachers involved in the scheme have already reported positive results, with 94% saying pupils’ behaviour has improved since taking part. Children in the programme have sampled more than 100 different varieties of fruit and vegetables, helping broaden their tastes and boost confidence around healthy eating.
The research also revealed that 71% of parents in the region have stopped buying certain fruit or vegetables after their child repeatedly refused them — something Tesco hopes to change through early exposure and hands‑on tasting in schools.
To celebrate the expansion, Tesco is launching a nationwide Giant Fruit & Veg Challenge, inviting children to design their own fruit-and-veg-packed dish. The winning recipe will appear on menus across the UK and be included in the school programme. JLS star turned farmer JB Gill and his son Ace will help judge the entries alongside nutrition experts.
Tesco Group CEO Ken Murphy said the retailer aims to help one million children access free fruit and veg through its school and community initiatives. “Schools have told us what a positive impact the programme has already made, so we’re delighted to be able to double the number of schools receiving support from September,” he said.
Alongside its in‑store Free Fruit for Kids and Fruit & Veg Grants, Tesco says it hopes to support thousands more families locally. Until 24 May, the supermarket will donate to the programme every time customers buy fruit or veg in store.
