Recent data has unveiled that numerous Welsh schools are serving chicken sourced from as far afield as China and Thailand, alarming parents and local advocates for sustainable food practices. The statistics, gathered by the Countryside Alliance and disclosed to BBC-produced Newyddion S4C, reveal that some local authorities, such as Merthyr Tydfil, rely heavily on poultry imports, with a staggering 99% of chicken served in schools coming from outside the European Union.
High Levels of Imported Poultry
The findings highlight a concerning trend in Welsh school meal programmes, where imported chicken is particularly prevalent. In Merthyr Tydfil, for instance, the council reported that 99.35% of chicken is frozen poultry sourced from countries like Thailand and China. This reliance on overseas products has raised questions about the commitment to local food sourcing, especially given the Welsh government’s stated intention to support domestic agriculture.
The data was compiled following Freedom of Information requests sent to all 22 local authorities in Wales, asking for details on the origin of chicken served in school meals. Out of the 20 responses received, three councils indicated that over 85% of their chicken came from non-EU countries. Conwy Council reported that 94% of its chicken was imported, while Caerphilly noted that 87.32% of its chicken came from outside the EU, although it plans to source all poultry locally by September 2025.
Safety Standards in Question
While the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) has assured that all chicken served in schools complies with strict UK food safety and hygiene regulations, the sourcing of poultry from distant countries raises concerns about food security and sustainability. Roberta Sonnino, a professor of sustainable food systems, emphasised that this issue is not unique to Wales; it reflects a wider trend across the UK, driven by cost-saving measures that overlook the environmental impact of long-distance food transport.
Parents have expressed their shock and disappointment at the findings. Leah Wright, a mother of two from Merthyr Tydfil, voiced her concerns about the importance of local sourcing, particularly in light of the current economic climate. Megan Ellis, another parent from the area, echoed these sentiments, asserting that Welsh schools should prioritise locally sourced ingredients to support the local economy.
A Call for Change
The Countryside Alliance has urged the Welsh government to take immediate steps to ensure that public funding for school meals supports local farmers and adheres to high food standards. Rachel Evans, director for the Countryside Alliance in Wales, called for a reassessment of procurement practices, suggesting that councils should strive for more sustainable and local options rather than relying on cheaper imports.
In response, the Welsh government stated its commitment to working alongside local authorities, producers, and wholesalers to reduce food miles and bolster local supply chains. The intention is to increase the usage of Welsh-produced food in schools to support local agriculture and promote sustainability.
Why it Matters
The reliance on imported chicken in Welsh schools raises significant questions about food security, sustainability, and the economic health of local communities. With growing awareness of the environmental impacts of long supply chains and the importance of supporting local farmers, this issue underscores the need for urgent action and a cultural shift in how food is sourced for school meals. Addressing these concerns not only benefits the local economy but also enhances the nutritional quality of meals provided to children, fostering a healthier future for the next generation.
