New York City’s Hospital Project Has Served Over 2 Million Plant-Based Meals to Patients

New York City's Hospital Project has served over 2 million plant-based meals to patients since March 2022, with over 900,000 meals served in 2024 alone. Mayor Eric Adams, who switched to a plant-based diet after being diagnosed with diabetes, expressed pride in the initiative for helping New Yorkers lead healthier lives. The transition to a plant-based menu has not only benefited the patients' health but has also led to a 36% reduction in carbon emissions and a cost savings of 59 cents per meal. Patients who ate plant-based meals reported a satisfaction rate exceeding 90%.

Kate MacKenzie, Executive Director of the Mayor's Office of Food Policy, highlighted the success of the plant-based meals in hospitals, noting that nutritious and delicious plant-based dishes are extending care and nourishing patients as they heal. All meals are prepared from scratch at the health system's Culinary Center in Brooklyn, showcasing a commitment to providing healthy and sustainable options for patients.