M&S supports The Greater Game.
M&S Food and the FA have partnered for a new activation as part of the retailer’s latest effort to encourage 12-16 year olds to eat more healthily.
As part of the activation, the FA has teamed up with popular YouTuber Yung Filly and M&S lead development chef Russel Goad as part of a three-part content series called ‘Freestyle Cooking’.
Directed by the FA’s internal production team, it features cameos from football stars Bukayo Saka, Ezri Konsa and Jarrod Bowen.
The series – which focuses on how easy it is to prepare healthy alternatives to popular fast food choices including a burger and chips, chicken and chips and a Chinese takeaway – will be released across The Greater Game’s YouTube channel, England Football’s social media platforms and Yung Filly’s Instagram and TikTok.
Players aged between 12-16 from grassroots team Foot Cray Lions FC joined Young Filly and Chef Russel and tried the dishes. Each of the meals are now included in M&S Food’s Eat Well recipes.
The series draws on the FA’s recent research which reveals that young people (71%) do not feel comfortable in the kitchen, with almost half (47%) of parents suggesting that easy-to-follow recipes would encourage their children to cook more.
“The Greater Game is about inspiring 12 to 16-year-olds to take one healthier action per week,” said FA head of marketing Freddie Sassoon.
“It’s a hugely important goal but with the support and power of Filly’s voice with young people in the football community, we can continue to positively impact lives.
“With the fantastic backing from our founding partners and a digital approach spanning TikTok, YouTube and Instagram, we’re confident we can drive meaningful change in young people through their passion for football.”
M&S lead development and innovation chef Russell Goad added: “It’s vital to have that balance when it comes to food and for parents to understand the importance of healthy eating.
“You can still enjoy your favourite takeaways while learning more about what it is you’re eating and how good these alternatives are for you.”
M&S supports The Greater Game.
