New JDW menu offers healthy options for kids

by MA Reporter Pub operator JD Wetherspoon has launched its new children's menu ­ with an emphasis on healthy eating. The menu is available to children aged 10 and under at almost 600 of the company's pubs across the UK ­ 90% of the estate. The menu consists of a choice from seven main courses, as well as a number of side orders, including fresh seasonal vegetables and fresh fruit. Alongside each menu item are symbols highlighting those that contain no added preservatives, no artificial colours or flavours, as well as those which are low in sodium. Wetherspoon food development manager Jeena Timothy, who devised the menu for the company, said: " Healthy eating is now a far greater priority for people than it has ever been. "Adults are especially keen for their children to eat healthy food away from the home, and we believe our new kids' menu is a big step in the right direction." The choice of meals includes chicken curry and rice ­ with hidden apricots ­ chicken breast nuggets (made from whole chicken, not reformed meat), chips and peas, shepherd's pie and peas as well as spaghetti bolognese. There is also a vegetarian option. In addition to the main meal, which is served with a choice of drink, diners can pay extra for seasonal vegetables in herb butter, an apple, orange or banana, as well as garlic bread. For dessert, children can enjoy an ice cream tub (with a choice of three flavours), and on Sunday's the menu also offers a children's portion of roast beef and vegetables. Timothy said: "The menu gives our younger customers a good choice of meals, and allows them the opportunity to try dishes, such as chicken curry and rice, which are not normally available on a children's menu." Children can visit a Wetherspoon's pub from opening time, provided that they and the adult accompanying them order a meal. Last orders for children's meals range from 5.30pm to 8.30pm, and pubs have designated no-smoking areas. Wetherspoon's children's meals range from £1.99 to £3.49, depending on the pub's location, but the average price of a children's meal is £2.49.