Kickin’ Up the Flavor at Beacon
Historically, hospitals have endured a bad (and often unfair) rap when it comes to food. And perhaps, in a past effort to boost flavor, the addition of a deep fryer in the hospital kitchen seemed like a good idea. But if health care providers (like Beacon) want to be leaders in promoting health and well-being for patients and our community, shouldn’t we “walk the talk” in the hospital cafeteria line, too? And do the same for our patients’ meals?
FAREWELL, DEEP FRYERS
Over the past 10 years, hospitals across the country have been ditching their deep fryers to make room for providing healthier options for patients, visitors and staff. Fredrick Girard, Director of Nutrition Services at Memorial Hospital, says it’s been nearly two years since they disposed of the deep fryer. At Elkhart General, plans are underway to make the transition from fried to baked and grilled items in October.
“We’re focusing on more of a fresh concept in the cafeteria,” says Beth Bowles, Director of Nutrition Services at Elkhart General Hospital. “Look for baked potato wedges instead of fries, as well as lean grilled meats, like chicken breasts and turkey burgers.”
Plus, to help everyone succeed in getting three to five daily servings of vegetables, more fresh veggies have been added to the salad bar.
MIND OVER MACARONI — MAKING THE HEALTHY CHOICE THE EASY CHOICE
Both hospitals make frequent updates to their food selections to make it easier for everyone to eat better.
“Our café continues to undergo a transformation to offer an improved food culture on our campus,” says Fredrick. “Fewer choices that support bad food habits and more choices that encourage better food habits is the goal.”
New menu items at Elkhart General include chicken dishes prepared with a variety of herbs and spices, including rosemary and turmeric. And, to help associates learn to make better food choices, EGH dietitians offer monthly “Nutrition Bites” lunch and learn sessions.
Look for more healthy changes coming to the cafeterias in the coming months!
