Concerns from Muslim groups have seen halal meat withdrawn from 18 schools in Luton.
Luton Borough Council said it had taken the “precautionary” measure of suspending halal meat and poultry from schools over an issue with certification, after being contacted by the Luton Council of Mosques and Sunni Council of Mosques.
A spokesman for the council said: “The council’s catering service has been successfully serving Halal meat for 15 years to several local schools.
“Our suppliers have provided us with certificates to show that the meat complies with requirements to be designated as halal.
“The issue focuses on the interpretation of how halal meat is certified. We are therefore seeking clarification from the certification body. This is not an issue relating to the source, safety of the food or whether it has been contaminated in any way.”
Affected children are being served vegetarian meals until meat is reinstated.
Luton Sixth Form College announced yesterday that it was also withdrawing halal meat from its menu for the same reasons, and that there was no issue with contamination.
A spokesman said: “We will monitor the situation closely and we are in negotiations with suppliers that meet the approval of the Council of Mosques.”