Shocking stats say 1 in 4 school kids get fast food delivered on lunch breaks
Survey claims secondary pupils are ordering unhealthy takeaways adding to childhood obesity epidemic
ONE in four secondary school pupils regularly has a take-away delivered to school, a survey claims.
They use smartphones to order burgers, pizza and chicken.
Meanwhile more than 40 per cent have a takeaway outlet within a two-minute walk from their school.
The Royal Society for Public Health, along with Slimming World and the Youth Health Movement, quizzed more than 500 youngsters aged 13 to 18.
Nearly half said fast food restaurants added to Britain’s childhood obesity crisis, which already sees 20 per cent of ten and 11-year-olds classed as dangerously overweight.
A third said they go to them to access the internet but often end up eating there. The RSPH wants a ban on junk food deliveries to schools. It also wants free wifi in parks, and supermarkets to give hard-to-sell misshapen fruit free to children.
The survey also showed 80 per cent of pupils believe it is misleading for food manufacturers to display fat and sugar content for single servings rather than whole packs.
The RSPH is calling for film-style ratings on unhealthy food and a loyalty card to reward healthy choices.
Chief executive Shirley Cramer said: “Our childhood obesity rates are disappointing. Tackling this must be a priority for government.”