18.10.12
Mixed messages
Recent studies have suggested that there is no correlation between spending on hospital food and quality, yet significant variation exists in spending across the country.
If it is really true that more money does not improve food quality, then many trusts need to spend their funding more efficiently. Likewise, if hospitals are spending an impressive amount, but purchasing poor quality food, this must be tackled.
Simple guidelines that point to less fat and salt, more vegetables and sustainably sourced produce could have considerable benefits for patients as well as improving the hospitals’ reputation and saving money.
Public health campaigns on the advantages of healthy eating cannot be fully taken seriously until hospitals themselves provide a nutritious menu.
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Image c. Charles Hutchins