UK Restaurants Criticized for Serving Ultra-Processed Children's Meals

A study by the Soil Association finds many popular chains rely on ready meals instead of freshly prepared, healthy options for kids.

The Soil Association's annual Out to Lunch league table reveals widespread use of ready meals and ultra-processed foods in children's menus at UK restaurant chains.
Chains like Bella Italia, Prezzo, and TGI Fridays were found to serve pre-made dishes, while Wahaca and JD Wetherspoon ranked highest for offering fresh, healthy, and affordable options.
Only a few chains, such as Wagamama, Nando's, and Leon, provide children's menus free from artificially sweetened or added sugar drinks.
The study highlights concerns over low-welfare meat sourcing, with some chains using meat imported from countries like Thailand and Brazil, while Nando's is the only chain using 100% British meat for kids' meals.
Parents and experts call for greater transparency and healthier, freshly prepared options, as ultra-processed food remains a major public health concern in the UK.