HAMPSHIRE County Council’s award-winning catering service has received national recognition from The Soil Association for producing fresh, high quality food to thousands of customers across Hampshire and beyond.

HC3S was presented with a Food For Life Served Here bronze award on May 22 from The Soil Association.

Mel Kendal, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for economic development, said: “HC3S has a fantastic track record of using fresh and locally sourced ingredients to produce nutritious, high-quality food for its customers, which includes 444 primary schools in Hampshire and 21 secondary schools.

“Over the years, HC3S staff have forged collaborative and innovative projects with industry partners and local suppliers, ensuring not only that the Hampshire economy is supported but that customers get the very best for their money.

“Congratulations to the team for this latest award. It’s a clear signal to customers that Hampshire keeps leading the way in raising the bar for food standards, and HC3S should be proud of that.”

Ian Nutt, head of development at The Soil Association, said: “We are delighted to have awarded Hampshire County Council’s catering service our bronze award, recognising that much the food on their school menus is freshly prepared, is always free from undesirable trans fats, sweeteners and additives, is cooked by trained chefs, and uses ingredients from sustainable and ethical sources.

“This fantastic achievement validates the hard work and commitment from everyone involved in the school meals service.”