Brits call for overhaul of 'bland' NHS hospital meals, eyeing plant-based options
A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that while 79% sympathise with the current state of the NHS, 55% believe there needs to be a change in the meals served.
The respondents identified being more environmentally friendly, healthier and more inclusive to different cultures and beliefs as some of the top benefits of a meat-free menu in hospitals. Additionally, 25% believe it could promote healthy eating habits post-hospital stay.
The research was commissioned by Plant-Based Healthcare Professionals UK, which advocates for plant-based meals to be the default option in hospitals and healthcare institutions, mirroring the policy in New York City hospitals.
Dr Shireen Kassam, founder of the community interest company, stated: "There's certainly an appetite to see change. Naturally, there will be many that perhaps wouldn't be as keen, but often once ideas are implemented, people adapt very quickly."
23% would be concerned the general public wouldn’t back plant-based menus being introduced to hospitals.
"Everyone has a vision in their minds when they think of hospital food and it is rarely positive, so it is certainly time the food had a refresh, plant-based dishes not only offer health, financial and climate benefits, but they are more colourful and flavoursome, too."
The general consensus on NHS hospital meals is that they're not exactly a feast for the eyes or the palate, with many patients finding them bland and unappetising.
A quarter of people surveyed felt that hospital meals were often served lukewarm or cold, and the same number thought the portions were too small.
When it comes to what's on the plate, 64% of respondents believe that healthiness should be the top priority. Interestingly, four in 10 (41%) would back the idea of plant-based milk and yoghurts being served in hospitals instead of dairy products.
According to data from OnePoll.com, 30% of those surveyed think processed meats like ham and bacon shouldn't be on the menu for patients.
However, there are concerns about public support for plant-based menus in hospitals, with 23% worried about potential backlash. Over half (53%) are concerned that some patients might refuse to eat plant-based meals, and 35% aren't sure if they'd be as tasty as meat-based options.
The survey also revealed that 32% would be interested in trying a completely plant-based diet themselves, and 31% have reduced their meat consumption in the last two years.
Dr Shireen Kassam, for Plant-Based Healthcare Professionals UK, said: "By encouraging a higher consumption of plant-based foods, we can try to reduce the prevalence of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, obesity and certain cancers."
"Aside from the health benefits, a typical plant-based meal uses less land, and has a 2.5 times lower impact on biodiversity than one containing meat."
"A modelling study has shown that this 'plant-based by default' approach could save the NHS £74 million annually and, if patients were also supported to make these dietary shifts at home, there would be significant household cost savings too."