An Innovative Program for Hospital Nutrition

New York City (NYC) Health + Hospitals implemented a nutrition program making plant-based meals the primary lunch and dinner options for patients at its 11 hospitals. Plant-based and culturally diverse meals are prepared and distributed by a central culinary center, managed by Sodexo. Food service associates visit patient rooms and verbally introduce the featured meals each day. To ensure alignment among all staff members, staff are educated about the health benefits of plant-based nutrition and about the new menu items. The plant-based meals have been well received, with patient acceptance over 95% and patient satisfaction above 90%. Per-tray food costs for plant-based entrees cost $0.59 less compared to trays including animal products. Furthermore, the hospital system has achieved a 36% reduction in calculated carbon emissions as a result of the new plant-based menu. Because dietary choices contribute significantly to health and may influence the likelihood of hospital readmissions, prioritizing plant-based meals and nutrition education during the hospital stay may help improve patient outcomes.