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For growing children, whose brains are still actively developing, getting the right nutrients is important. A healthy, balanced diet can help with concentration and performance inside and outside the classroom. Essential nutrients, from the right balance of protein, fats and carbohydrates to vitamins, minerals and water are all important for cognitive development. Launched in 2016 and backed by Public Health England, the Eatwell Guide is the UK government's model for healthy

You’ve probably heard a lot about fibre lately in the news and on social media, but what exactly is it and why is it important to our health? Dietary fibre is a term used to describe a selection of carbohydrates that are found naturally in plants. Fibre differs to most other carbohydrates (such as sugars and most starches), in that it is not digested in the small intestine and therefore reaches the large intestine mostly intact. This means that fibre can help you feel fuller

Every year, 'Action on Salt' run a national Salt Awareness Week to help raise awareness of the damaging effect of excess salt in the diet. Evidence has shown that regularly eating too much salt increases the risk of developing high blood pressure. High blood pressure is the main cause of strokes and a major cause of heart attacks and heart failure, the most common causes of death and illness in the world. A diet high in salt can also causes our bodies to lose calcium. This ca

And it looks delicious! We've just launched our new primary school summer menu and it's full of exciting and delicious options that will provide students with nutritional, wholesome meals as well as flavour and fun at every lunchtime! Take a look below at some of the flavour-packed favourites on our menu... If you'd like to see the core range of meals available in our new primary summer menu, the white-plate images are available here . You can also find more detail about our

Ultra‑processed foods (UPFs) have been receiving a lot of attention recently, and it’s understandable that this has led to questions and confusion. What exactly are UPFs? Are they unhealthy? Should they be avoided altogether? At HCL, we believe food education is the key to a healthy relationship with food in the future. Below, we’ve summarised the key things you need to know about UPFs so you can feel informed and confident about the choices you make for your family. What are

David Stanley joins HCL to drive excellence in food innovation and standards . HCL Executive Chef David Stanley HCL is delighted to...

The Heart of Our Kitchen Our commitment to providing delicious, nutritious meals to schools is made possible through strong partnerships...

We’re spotlighting Helene Walker for National Apprenticeship Week, celebrating how her apprenticeship journey has supported her role.

At HCL, December is always a special time of year, filled with tradition and teamwork. One of our cherished customs is for head office...