Care settings
We have recently celebrated the successes of our first care settings to achieve the Food for Life Catering Mark.
The Catering Mark offers patients and their relatives an assurance that the food on the menu is freshly prepared from unprocessed ingredients and is free from trans fats, GM, MSG and controversial e-numbers. The silver and gold awards recognise actions taken to make healthy eating easier, such as reducing the amount of salt used in cooking.
It is widely acknowledged that fresh, nutritious food has significant health benefits. With statistics suggesting that 30 to 40 per cent of adults admitted to hospitals, care homes or mental health units are at risk of malnutrition, it is vital that care settings become more aware of the link between good food and good health.
The Catering Mark positions food provision where it should be - at the centre of recovery and residential life. It guarantees that time and care has gone into the planning of each menu and each dish. Catering staff must undergo training on the Standards, and incorporate residents' feedback into their menu planning.
We're working with the UK's largest catering companies - many of which are already providing food for care settings. We expect interest in this area to grow as people become more aware of the benefits of a joined up approach to food, health and residential care.
If you would like your care setting to be a leader in the movement towards good food culture, please get in touch.
Award holders
Bronze