CLEVELAND District State High School has banned pupils from getting food delivered to school by companies like Uber Eats and McDonalds Delivery.
The school has cited safety and security but the issue has also raised concerns about students’ unhealthy food choices while the state government pushes a healthy eating program.
The school said in an email to parents that students did not have consent to organise food deliveries to school.
“Students who do not comply will have their food confiscated and returned to them at the end of the day,” the school said in an email.
“The school will not be liable if the food item perishes before the end of the day.”
The email said Education Queensland required all deliveries be made to the office.
“It is not the responsibility of office staff to receive food deliveries for individuals or groups,” it said.
Principal Paul Bancroft said the school was also concerned about students’ safety.
“We need to monitor who comes onto the premises,” Mr Bancroft said.
P&Cs Queensland chief executive Kevan Goodworth said he was aware of other schools having banned food deliveries to students.
“It is very important for schools to know who is on the premises,” he said.
Victoria Point nutritionist Garry Borman said healthy food choices were not the go-to for teens.
“High energy foods – based on refined carbohydrates like pasta, breads and white rice – are often the first choice,” he said. “These meals are often accompanied by a high calorie sugary drink or an energy drink.”
“The result is a high calorie, low nutrient meal that will turn to fat as they sit in a classroom, when a meal supplying vitamins and minerals is what is required.”
Mr Goodworth said students might order food that was not in line with the government’s Smart Choices strategy. This policy promotes healthy food and drink at tuckshops, in vending machines, on excursions and during events.
He said policies on food deliveries and options should be made by schools with parent groups.
Mr Borman said hot summers made it difficult to keep perishable food cool.
“I would like to see ways for students to keep lunches cool and to warm up food, if required,” he said.
“This would take away the excuse of boring sandwiches that don’t get eaten.”
