NHS urged to adopt vegan meals for better health and savings

In the UK, healthcare leaders and over 1,000 health experts, including Tim Spector, have urged the NHS to adopt plant-based meals as the standard option in hospitals. This initiative follows a successful trial in New York in 2022, which demonstrated a significant reduction in food-related carbon emissions and high patient satisfaction. The coalition, known as Plants First Healthcare, emphasizes the health benefits of a plant-predominant diet, citing a report that links 70,000 deaths in the UK to insufficient intake of nutritious plant-based foods. The letter advocates for a 'plant-based by default' approach, allowing for meat and dairy options while prioritizing plant-based meals. The potential financial benefits are substantial, with estimates suggesting that a complete shift to plant-based diets could save the NHS approximately £18.8 billion annually. This movement aligns with broader goals to address climate change and improve public health, as food accounts for 6% of the NHS's carbon footprint. Several NHS trusts have already committed to reducing food emissions, indicating a growing recognition of the need for sustainable food practices in healthcare settings.