Investigations have revealed that a substantial proportion of chicken served in school cafeterias across several Welsh counties originates from overseas producers, chiefly China and Thailand. The findings have sparked debate over supply chain resilience, budgeting constraints, and the transparency of food sourcing in public education.
Extent of Imports
Data supplied by Merthyr Tydfil Council indicates that 99.35 % of the chicken used in its school meals was sourced from Thailand and China. Similar patterns have been identified in Conwy County Borough Council and Gwynedd Council, where imported poultry accounts for the majority of the protein supplied to pupils.
Reasons Cited by Authorities
The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) acknowledged that some schools resort to imported chicken due to “availability and cost pressures.” Council officials explained that tighter budgets and occasional shortfalls in domestic supply have made overseas procurement a financially viable alternative, particularly in regions where local producers cannot meet the volume or price requirements of the school catering contracts.
Implications for Food Standards and Transparency
While imported chicken complies with UK food safety regulations, the high reliance on distant sources raises questions about traceability, nutritional consistency, and the environmental impact of long‑haul transportation. Parents and advocacy groups have called for clearer labeling and a review of procurement policies to ensure that pupils receive meals that are both affordable and locally sourced where possible.
Council Responses and Future Plans
Merthyr Tydfil Council has pledged to explore “more sustainable and locally‑focused supply chains” in upcoming budgeting cycles, though it cautioned that any shift would depend on market conditions and the capacity of Welsh poultry farms. Conwy and Gwynedd councils similarly indicated they are monitoring the situation and will assess the feasibility of increasing domestic procurement without compromising cost‑effectiveness.
Broader Context
The situation mirrors a wider trend across the United Kingdom, where school meal providers increasingly turn to global suppliers to manage fiscal pressures. Analysts suggest that without targeted investment in the domestic poultry sector, reliance on imports may persist, prompting ongoing scrutiny from policymakers, educators, and the public.
