GLASGOW'S lead in setting standards for healthy meals in primary schools is to be copied throughout Scotland.

But the new rules still don't go as far as the city in its pioneering approach to encouraging youngsters to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

From August next year, all primaries will have to limit deep fried food to three items each week.

They will also have to offer at least two portions of fruit and vegetables every lunchtime and provide free drinking water throughout the day.

The restriction also applies to oven chips because they are deep fried in the manufacturing process and, if chips are on the menu, they can only be served as part of a meal.

Minister for Schools Maureen Watt said: "Putting healthy options on a plate for pupils every day will develop their taste for the food that's good for them and stop unhealthy habits from taking hold.

"That means they benefit on a daily basis and for the rest of their lives."

However, the new Scotland-wide regulations do not go as far as policies already introduced in Glasgow which pioneered free fresh milk and fruit for all and, as part of its balanced diet programme, restricts primaries from offering chips more than once a fortnight.

A council spokesman said: "Glasgow's primary school provision has more than met these regulations for some time.

"Our school meals service remains at the forefront of the healthy eating revolution.

"In recent years the city council has launched numerous initiatives in primary schools such as Fruit Plus, Glasgow's Big Breakfast, Pick n Mix, Refresh and free milk."

The government has also published new guidelines on teaching health and wellbeing in schools as part of the Curriculum for Excellence.

Schools will also be expected to offer pupils two hours of PE a week, under the new guidelines.

Pupils could also get the chance to take part in physical activities in break times, lunchtimes and at the end of the school day.

Ms Watt added: "Obesity is an increasing problem and poses a serious risk to health.

"That is why tackling the problem, particularly in early life, is a high priority.

"It is also why we are determined to help children develop a taste for healthy eating at the earliest possible age.

"As part of our national food policy, we will be encouraging people to develop healthy eating habits that will benefit them for the rest of their lives and help to tackle the serious problem of obesity.

"Giving our children guidance on what's good for them and how to make good food choices is essential in taking this forward."