Hundreds More US Hospitals To Get Plant-Based Meals By 2026

Nonprofit organization Greener by Default (GBD) has announced plans to expand its partnership with food services company Sodexo, with an additional 200 US hospitals set to offer plant-forward menus by 2026. The program, which currently includes 131 hospitals, aims to make positive plant-based meals the default option for at least one meal per day, while still allowing patients the freedom of choice.

The initiative, first introduced in 2022 at 11 NYC Health+ Hospitals, has been deemed a success with over half of eligible patients opting for plant-based options. The program has also led to a significant reduction in carbon emissions at participating hospitals, with one Sodexo-served hospital seeing a 36% increase in plant-based entree consumption and a 20% decline in meat-based options. Positive attitudes towards plant-focused hospital menus are growing both in the US and globally, with one-third of UK residents supporting a plant-based default approach in healthcare.

Overall, the move towards plant-forward hospital menus not only promotes health and well-being but also addresses issues such as chronic illnesses, cost savings, and environmental sustainability. By shifting even a small percentage of daily meals from meat to plant-based options, hospitals have the potential to make a significant impact in promoting healthier and more sustainable food choices for patients.