Awards & RecognitionFood, Dining & Recipes

We’re excited to announce that the Vegetarian for Life Awards for Excellence in Veg*n Care Catering are returning to the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday 22 October 2025.

This years winners with Patron TV presenter Wendy Turner Webster collecting the prize for BOSH. The 2024 VfL Award winners are: 1. Care/Hospital Caterer of the Year, sponsored by Middleton Foods:… Credit: VfL

As interest in plant-based living continues to rise across all age groups, our most recent survey revealed a 24% increase in vegan and vegetarian care home residents over the past decade. This shift makes the awards more relevant – and more vital – than ever.

First launched in 2016, the VfL Awards honour the chefs, caterers, and suppliers who go above and beyond to ensure older veg*ns are not just fed, but truly cared for with dignity and compassion.

 

Celebrating Plant-Based Excellence in Care Catering:

VfL Awards Return to the Houses of Parliament

As the number of vegans and vegetarians in residential care continues to grow, Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is proud to announce the return of its flagship event: the VfL Awards for Excellence in Veg*n Care Catering.

The 2024 VfL Award winners are: 1. Care/Hospital Caterer of the Year, sponsored by Middleton Foods: Matthew Thornton, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, for expanding vegan options to provid…
Credit: VfL

The prestigious awards will be held on the afternoon of Wednesday 22 October 2025, at the Houses of Parliament, bringing together champions of compassionate care catering from across the UK.

From inspired chefs to pioneering suppliers, the awards shine a spotlight on the individuals and organisations making real strides in ensuring that older veg*ns are well nourished, respected, and truly seen.

“At VfL, we believe that care caterers who go the extra mile to create delicious and nutritious plant-based meals deserve meaningful recognition,” said Amanda Woodvine, Chief Executive of Vegetarian for Life.

“The VfL Awards celebrate those leading the way in modern, inclusive care catering.”

TV presenter, author and Vegetarian for Life Patron Wendy Turner Webster added:

“Behind every thoughtfully prepared vegan or vegetarian meal in a care home is someone who took the time to listen, learn and care. These awards are about honouring those unsung heroes who ensure dignity, choice, and compassion are always on the menu.”

Award entries must be submitted by 12pm on Friday 15 August.

Submit your nominations here: https://form.jotform.com/VfL_UK/vfl-awards-2025


Victoria Featherstone Pearce – VfL Ambassador Wendy Turner Webster – VfL Patron Amanda Woodvine – VfL CEO Karin Ridgers – VfL PR and Presenter
Credit: VfL

2025 Award Categories

Vegan/Vegetarian Care/Hospital Caterer of the Year sponsored by Greetwell Purchasing Solutions.

Awarded to a standout caterer or team preparing a wide range of exciting, nutritious meals for older veg*ns in care.

 

Vegan/Vegetarian Supplier of the Year sponsored by Procurement For Care. 

Honouring a supplier offering an exceptional veg*n product – or product range –that enhances care catering menus.

Chefs’ Hero Product. 

Chosen by chefs, this award highlights the go-to plant-based product they rely on when developing flavourful, resident-friendly dishes.

Most Innovative Vegan/Vegetarian Recipe sponsored by ProSauce. 

Looking for the dish that combines great taste, affordability, and creative use of ingredients – whether for care settings or at home.

(Winning recipes will be shared with stakeholders and showcased across VfL’s digital platforms.)

The Beulah Charity Trust Special Recognition Award. 

Celebrating an individual making an extraordinary difference for older vegans and vegetarians – be it a resident, volunteer, or care professional.

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