About the FBCS

Many school communities are already aware of the important links between food, health and learning and are taking steps to improve their food and nutrition environments. The school canteen plays an important role in encouraging healthy eating habits. It enables children and young people to act on the healthy eating messages learned in the classroom by selecting from food and drink choices that are healthy, look and taste good, and are affordable.

The National Administration Guidelines 5 state that all state and state-integrated schools are required to promote healthy food and nutrition for all students. The FBCS is a practical tool that can be used by students, teachers, canteen managers and food preparation staff to identify healthy food and drink options for their school canteen. The FBCS has been designed specifically for foods and drinks commonly consumed by children at school. 

The FBCS categorises foods and drinks as everyday, sometimes and occasional. Schools have been provided with a User Guide that explains these categories. Food that is made on site at schools is not classified under the FBCS. Instead schools have been provided with a Catering Guide, which provides guidance on how to prepare healthier food on the school premises.

To help school canteen staff choose healthy options, a Buyers’ Guide, which provides a comprehensive product and company listing of everyday and sometimes products, will be available. All products listed in the Buyers’ Guide meet the FBCS nutrient framework for schools. The Buyers’ Guide is available now online and will also be sent out to all schools twice per year in a printed version. The online Buyers’ Guide is updated regularly and is searchable and print friendly.

For more information on the FBCS please go to the links page.