Top tips for wholesalers and distributors

There is demand from schools, parents and government organisations for schools to offer their students access to healthier food. This can be demanding for tuck shop operators. Here’s how distributors can help.

Delivery worker in red uniform holding a crate filled with fresh vegetables like corn, lettuce, tomatoes, and leafy greens in front of refrigerated truck.

There is a growing demand from schools, parents, and government bodies for healthier food offerings. However, tuckshops often face challenges in sourcing convenient, affordable, and appealing healthy options. Here are a few ways you can actively support healthier school food environments. 

Make healthy choices easy to order

Create a dedicated school tuckshop range that highlights products commonly offered in school tuckshops and meeting healthy food guidelines.

Make these easy to identify in your catalogue or online ordering system with filters or a ‘healthy choice’ badge.

Download our full list of core ingredients to help your customers make nutritious meals and snacks.

Provide nutrition information of products

Support schools and tuckshop operators by providing ingredient list, nutrition information and Health Star rating for your products. These details help schools identify which options meet nutrition guidelines and support healthier choices.

Stock smart portions and packaging

Offer popular snack foods and drinks in smaller, school-appropriate portions. This supports moderation while maintaining familiarity for students.

Collaborate on healthy product development

Partner with manufacturers to develop or reformulate products that meet school nutrition standards without compromising taste or convenience.

Vending foods and drinks

Student using contactless payment to buy snacks or drinks from a school vending machine, promoting healthy options and convenience.

Vending machines are often the quick-fix option when students need a snack. Nutritious snacks and drinks help maintain energy levels and support focus throughout the school day.

The food and drinks available at school influence both students’ daily choices and their long-term habits.

Use this checklist to ensure water, whole foods, and nutrient-rich snacks are provided instead of high-sugar, high-fat, or high-salt options.

Creating and modifying recipes

Healthy school recipes