NYC Health + Hospitals, serving over 1.4 million patients annually, can significantly enhance animal welfare and environmental sustainability by adopting plant-forward menus. This guide explains how to choose sustainable, plant-based food options for NYC hospitals.
Why transition to plant-forward menus?
Plant-forward menus can minimize environmental impact and improve animal welfare. Hospitals can play a crucial role in promoting public health and sustainability by adopting these menus.
“Plant-based diets can significantly reduce the risk of many chronic diseases and improve overall health, making them a viable option for hospitals to consider.”
How to choose plant-forward menu options
NYC Health + Hospitals can implement the following strategies to transition towards plant-forward menus.
How to transition to plant-forward menus
- 1
Step 1
Conduct a comprehensive audit of current menus and suppliers to identify opportunities for plant-based alternatives.
- 2
Step 2
Partner with local farmers and suppliers to source sustainable, plant-based ingredients.
- 3
Step 3
Gradually incorporate more plant-based options into menus, ensuring variety and appeal to diverse patient preferences.
- 4
Step 4
Educate staff and patients on the benefits of plant-forward menus and how to make informed choices.
- 5
Step 5
Monitor and evaluate the success of plant-forward menu implementation, using data to drive continuous improvement.
| Food type | Greenhouse gas emissions (kg CO2-eq per kg) | Water usage (liters per kg) | Land use (m2 per kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beef | 27 | 15,400 | 70 |
| Chicken | 5 | 4,300 | 5 |
| Dairy | 4 | 1,000 | 1 |
| Lentils | 0.9 | 300 | 0.8 |
| Tofu | 2.2 | 200 | 0.4 |
Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from plant-based diets
Frequently asked questions
How will plant-forward menus impact hospital costs?+
Adopting more plant-based options can lower food costs and reduce healthcare expenditures associated with diet-related diseases.
Can hospitals still offer meat and dairy options?+
Yes, plant-forward menus allow for the presence of animal products, focusing on increasing plant-based foods while decreasing animal-based ones.
How can NYC Health + Hospitals ensure adequate nutrition with plant-forward menus?+
By offering a variety of plant-based foods, hospitals can provide balanced and nutritious meals that meet patients' dietary needs.
