The number of pupils eating school lunches has fallen in 70 per cent of schools, a year since standards for food were introduced in September 2006.
Menus have been poorly marketed, pupils feel there is a lack of choice, and schools have failed to consult with parents and students, according to Ofsted's report.
Christine Gilbert, chief inspector of schools, said: "Schools that had the most impact in encouraging healthy choices were those which gave a priority to this as part of their day-to-day work."
However, only a third of secondary schools attempted to push the healthy eating agenda at meal times.
Primary schools fared marginally better overall because they used creative ideas to engage pupils and adapted meals to children's preferences.
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