Children are ignoring healthy eating messages in school dinner halls, despite knowing their preferred alternatives are not good for them.

The Children in Scotland charity carried out research amongst dozens of school pupils.

The results come as the Scottish Executive tries to improve the diet of many Scots.

It has long been known that children prefer dishes such as hot dogs, chips and pizza.

Children know this is what they should be eating

But 91% of the children who responded to the charity's questionnaire were also aware they were nutritionally deficient.

A majority said the biggest influence on their choice of food was their friends.

The survey was conducted in response to a recent executive report on school meals.

The executive called for them to be radically overhauled, to improve both their nutritional value and to increase the take-up by pupils, many of whom did not like the food provided.

Mike Lean, a professor of human nutrition at Glasgow University, said one of the problems facing school caterers is that children will opt for what they are familiar with.

Professor Lean said that frequently means children will opt for fast, convenience food.

Charity chief executive Bronwen Cohen called on families, as well as schools and other services to help young people enjoy eating well.