Plant-based food options are becoming increasingly popular across the healthcare industry's menu — and for good reason. High meat consumption can lead to health complications, including strokes, obesity and certain cancers. While one doesn’t have to eliminate animal protein completely, incorporating healthier alternatives, such as vegetarian options, can significantly benefit a patient's recovery.

Menu trends indicate that Mediterranean and plant-based options are shaping the healthcare industry's culinary departments. 93% of consumers want to eat healthy foods at least some of the time, with 63% trying to eat healthy foods most or all the time.

Providing patients with visually appealing, hearty, healthy meals can enhance their hospital stay with desirable menu options, increasing their satisfaction.

 

Food is medicine

In September 2022, New York Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Health + Hospitals (H+H) CEO Dr. Mitchell H. Katz announced that plant-based meals are the primary dinner options for inpatients across multiple hospitals in the city.

This shift in one of the country's largest metropolitan areas indicates how the plant-based trend is reshaping the healthcare sector.

Diet influences a patient's overall health. What they consume can impact their energy and overall quality of life. When patients are in recovery, meals should be both delicious and nutritious.

Vegetarian meal options empower patients to make healthier choices pertaining to their diet, which can lead to preventing chronic diseases and aid recuperation.

Mediterranean, Latin and Asian cuisines tend to influence healthier food choices for patients by providing flavorful meals with limited or no sodium and an increased number of vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats, such as olive and avocado oil.

These meals often consist of:

  • Bowls – Bowls offer versatile options packed with nutritional proteins and grains, including rice, beans, low-fat cheese and delicious veggies.
  • Wraps and sandwiches – Similar to bowls, wraps and sandwiches provide customizable options with delicious fillings, mainly consisting of plant-based options.
  • Smoothies and protein shakes – Smoothies and shakes are healthy alternatives filled with natural sugars and clean ingredients.

"Diversity in our hospital dietary menus is extremely important, especially for patients with varying needs," said New York City Councilmember Marjorie Velazquez.

Depending on their condition, certain patients may need to be on a special diet. A diverse menu gives patients the nutrients they need to thrive. Focusing on diverse, plant-based dishes provides patients with meals to satisfy both their appetites and health.

 

Inspiring culinary creation with the right chinaware

Culinary innovation allows healthcare food service directors to not only transform produce into tasty dishes but also transform them into visually appealing masterpieces.  

As the saying goes: “you eat with your eyes first.” When patients see food, brain signals trigger responses on how they feel about the meal before it even reaches their mouths.

Incorporating beautiful meal creations with the perfect chinaware can increase a patient's appetite, helping aid recovery. Patients who are visually attracted to their meal will be more likely to take a bite, providing them with the strength needed to heal. 

Aladdin Temp-Rite's china bowls and plates are the perfect options for plating. Designed specifically for meal delivery systems, this chinaware's crisp, clean look will provide patients with the quality dining experience they deserve.

Patients will appreciate Aladdin's chinaware variety, which can accommodate a variety of menu items, from breakfast bowls to noodle bowls.

D724 China Entree Bowl Features include:

 

Focusing on patients

While patients focus on recovery, healthcare food service ensures patients are fulfilled by their meals. In addition to the health benefits, incorporating nutritious food items with a visual appeal can play a role in Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) customer satisfaction scores.

The HCAHPS survey serves as a standardized method for the federal government to track patient perceptions of hospitals.

Enhancing a patient's dining experience can increase scores, even by a small percentage. Revamping food service operations could be the missing piece for healthcare facilities across the U.S.

Incorporating nutritious meals within healthcare food service can position healthcare facilities as leaders in promoting health. Plus, healthy foods paired with enticing presentation make a difference in patient satisfaction. It is essential to ensure meals served are aiding patient recovery, not hindering it.