The project has been recognised by the London 2012 Inspire programme with their Inspire Mark, given to innovative schemes which come from the inspiration of this summer's Games.

The new menu, designed by Hertfordshire Catering and Hertfordshire is Ready for Winners, will be in schools between March 5 and 16, with pupils sampling foods from a range of countries.

Every child who eats one of the lunches designed will be entered into a draw to win a London 2012 official prize.

All children taking part will also receive a certificate of achievement by Long, who won 100 metres butterfly gold in Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000, in the S8 category.

Long, who also won two silver and two bronze in tehe Paralympics, spoke at the initiative's launch at the Lee Valley White Water Centre, the first London 2012 venue open to the public.

"Being the best is about paying attention to detail and food is one of those details," said the 35-year-old Long.

"Sport is about getting the maximum you can out of your body and the right food as fuel is vital in that process.

"That is why I'm delighted to support this initiative."

Chairman of the Hertfordshire is Ready for Winners Board, Derrick Ashley, said: "The aim of the project is to use the celebration of London 2012 to promote health and wellbeing through the provision of 2012 inspired healthy eating options in schools.

"It will also raise the awareness among young people of the disciplined dietary regimes of top athletes...and hopefully introduce them to new tastes and educate their palates."

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