New Study Highlights Poor Nutrition and Environmental Impact of Food in Healthcare Settings

A comprehensive analysis conducted in Germany reveals that the food served in hospitals and nursing homes significantly undermines both individual health and planetary sustainability. Researchers examined menus and procurement data from two hospitals and three nursing facilities, reflecting common practices in high-income countries. The findings show that these institutions’ meals are lacking in vital plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. Instead, diets are characterized by excessive refined grains, added sugars, salt, and saturated fats, leading to poor nutritional quality.

The study highlights that all analyzed institutions failed to meet daily recommended intakes of essential nutrients including folate, potassium, and vitamin B6, with nursing homes also falling short in protein provision. Notably, calorie sources from wholesome plant foods accounted for less than 20%, far below the 80% target set by the Planetary Health Diet. Conversely, refined grains contributed over 20% of calories, and red meat constituted 10-17%, exacerbating poor diet quality.

Animal products, especially red meat and dairy, were major contributors to environmental degradation, including high greenhouse gas emissions, land use change, and water pollution. The researchers emphasize that this diet pattern not only poses health risks over time—such as increasing the prevalence of chronic diseases—but also accelerates environmental harm.

The study underscores that healthcare institutions should serve as role models for healthy, sustainable diets. Transitioning toward diets rich in plant-based foods and reducing animal-source foods is vital. The authors advocate for mandatory nutrition and sustainability standards, routine assessments of food quality, and environmental impact evaluations in healthcare foodservices. Despite Germany’s recent nutritional strategy aimed at improving foodservice in healthcare settings, political action remains insufficient. Financial pressures and operational constraints contribute to the current shortcomings.

Experts call for policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritize food quality, establish clear standards, and close existing data gaps. Implementing these measures is essential to promote health, prevent chronic illnesses, and protect the environment for future generations.