Food and Nutrition Policy – Supporting Healthy Growth from the Start

Our Food and Nutrition Policy is carefully developed in line with the latest Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Nutrition Guidance (DfE, May 2025), ensuring we provide balanced, nutritious, and age-appropriate meals and snacks for all children in our care.

This policy reflects statutory requirements and best practices to support children’s growth, development, and learning. It outlines how we cater to diverse dietary needs, promote positive mealtime experiences, work closely with families, and maintain the highest standards of food safety and hygiene.

We believe that good nutrition is foundational to every child’s health and happiness, and our policy guides our commitment to making every mealtime a positive, educational, and inclusive part of their day.

Explore our Food and Nutrition Policy to see how we nurture healthy eating habits and create a welcoming environment where children can thrive.

Our policy includes;

• information on food and drink provision
• baby feeding guidance e.g. weaning, breast or formula feeding
• the mealtime environment and social aspects of mealtimes
• celebrations and special occasions
• management of food allergies and dietary needs
• provision for cultural and dietary preferences
• policy on food brought in from home
• policy on commercial baby food and drink
• learning about food
• cooking with children
• food safety and hygiene
• sustainability

Why a Food and Nutrition Policy is Essential for Early Years Settings

Ensures Compliance with Statutory Requirements

The policy helps settings meet legal obligations under the EYFS framework and the latest government nutrition guidance, ensuring that food provision is safe, healthy, and appropriate for young children.

Promotes Consistent Practice

It provides clear standards and procedures for staff to follow, leading to consistency in meal planning, food preparation, allergy management, and mealtime routines.

Supports Children’s Health and Development

By prioritising balanced nutrition, the policy contributes to children’s physical growth, cognitive development, and lifelong healthy eating habits.

Addresses Individual Dietary Needs Safely

The policy ensures that allergies, intolerances, cultural, and religious dietary requirements are carefully managed, protecting children’s wellbeing.

Enhances Communication and Partnership

It encourages active engagement and trust between the setting and families, helping everyone work together to support children’s nutrition and preferences.

Improves Food Safety and Hygiene Standards

Clear guidelines reduce the risk of foodborne illness and choking hazards, promoting a safe eating environment.

Supports Educational Opportunities

The policy underpins learning about healthy eating through mealtime interactions, activities, and positive role modelling.