When people think of hospital food, they don’t often imagine it as a culinary experience. But the reality is that hospital food has a lot of potential to be both healthy and inspiring. From Stanford’s high-tech room service ordering through the TV to Fauquier Hospital’s local organic menu, many hospitals are reimagining their dining options. And with a little innovation, careful presentation, reliable temperature control and a bit of creativity, even a simple meal can become an excellent patient care highlight.
The food in a hospital is not only a necessity but a reflection of the culture and community that a hospital serves. Especially for patients who are away from home and family, hospital food can be an opportunity to experience some of the cuisines they may have missed or struggled with back at home. For this reason, some of the most progressive hospitals are embracing authentic foods and celebrating cultural and religious holidays by offering a variety of dishes.
For example, one Reddit user shared a picture of their breakfast in a hospital that included congee with pork and mushroom, a croissant and orange juice. This dish was rated an 8/10 in a forum dedicated to hospital food on the social media site. Another hospital in England, Alder Hey Children’s hospital, is the only one to serve a chef in every ward so that patients can get fresh made-to-order meals.
Some hospitals are using a “stealth health” approach that makes traditionally unhealthy or comforting dishes like fries and burgers healthier without changing their flavor. By reducing fat content and sodium levels while increasing fiber and protein, these meals are still tasty, satisfying and nutritious.
Other hospitals are going further with their foodservice and incorporating fresh, local ingredients to make their food not only tastier but also better for the environment and their communities. For example, Mercy has several hospitals that are known for their gourmet dishes and recipes, including the tarragon chicken breast with pasta in pesto cream sauce, roasted Cajun salmon and spinach and ricotta salad. Some hospitals are even growing their own produce and herbs on-site to create their own healthy ingredients.
Whether you are staying in the hospital for an illness, a procedure or surgery, it is important to eat as healthy as possible. It is also important to stay hydrated, and to steer clear of sugary snacks like donuts, cookies and granola bars. Instead, stock up on fruits, veggies and whole grains, and drink plenty of water and iced tea or seltzer.
While there is a long road ahead for the healthcare industry, it is encouraging to see hospitals across the country take steps toward making their dining options more appealing and healthy. With the right preparation, innovative ideas, great production and intelligent menu planning, even a simple meal can help keep patients happy and healthy, and give them a glimpse of how they can take care of themselves after they leave the hospital.