The new menus will start in June

South Tyneside school cooks discussed the issue at their bi-annual training day and are now planning changes to ensure pupils enjoy healthy food.

Chips will be featured only once a week, and there will be a minimum of four salads daily and children will be encouraged to choose vegetables.

TV chef Jamie Oliver has highlighted the issue over recent months.

South Tyneside Council lead member for lifelong learning and leisure Councillor Jim Foreman said: "South Tyneside's school cooks do a consistently good job in sometimes trying circumstances and always try to provide the best service to our young people.

Products analysed

"We all know these days that if youngsters exist on junk food, it has an adverse effect on their concentration and behaviour in the classroom.

"It is good to see that the borough's school catering service is taking the initiative in improving the quality of school meals on offer to our children."

A three-week menu cycle will operate in South Tyneside schools, changing every six months.

The menus, which will be introduced from June, will feature two main courses, including one meat-free option, and two sweet courses.

There will also be one "cook's choice" main course option from an approved list of products and recipes.

Products bought prepared and frozen will be analysed for fat, salt and additive content.