Nutrition is critically important in care settings. Around 40% of residents in care homes are at risk of malnutrition, making it essential that any changes to diet menus prioritise both health and individual choice. Fortunately, many sustainable dietary options also align with a healthy diet for older adults.
Tess Warnes, allmanhall’s Registered Dietitian, highlights the importance of integrating sustainability with good nutrition:
“Many sustainable food choices also support key dietetic requirements for older adults – from fibre-rich plant-based proteins to seasonal produce full of natural flavour and nutrients. It’s important to use evidence-based strategies to protect your residents’ health while supporting the planet.”
Sourcing sustainable produce and planning well-balanced menus contribute to a more dignified, enriching dining experience. For example:
- Reduce red meat to no more than 500g per week, consistent with health recommendations. A high intake of red meat is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer, including in older adults. Evidence shows that reducing red meat to this level does not impact iron intake significantly.
- Reduce or avoid processed foods. Processed meats are strongly linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer. Minimising these foods supports long-term health without compromising nutrition.
- Increase beans and pulses.Beans and lentils are excellent sources of protein and fibre, and sustainable.
Increasing these foods can add variety, which is important for gut health and the microbiome. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to numerous aspects of health, including mental wellbeing. - Increase fibre intake. Adults over 75 are consuming only 17g of fibre daily, compared to the recommended 30g. Adequate fibre helps reduce constipation, supports gut health, improves mood and energy, and lowers bowel cancer risk.
Replacing 50% of the beef in a cottage pie with lentils or Eat Curious’ plant-based mince, for example, increases the amount of both fibre and protein in the dish while also reducing the carbon impact by 41% and maintaining the delicious, nostalgic flavour for residents. Every care setting is different, and dietary needs vary. That’s why expert support matters. With the support of a food procurement partner like allmanhall, you can make ingredient swaps that both protect nutrition and improve food quality.
Sustainability isn’t just an add-on. Alongside nutrition, it’s part of a dignified approach to catering in a care setting, supporting the health and wellbeing of residents through every meal.
