Emphasis on healthier staff menus

Hospital staff could face smaller meal portions under changes proposed in a healthy food and drink policy at the Southern District Health Board.

The hospital advisory committee will consider the policy at its meeting in Dunedin today.

Changes to portion sizes would mean having to revisit meal prices in staff cafes, the policy says.

The policy would ban drinks containing sugar added before sale, including sugar-added fruit juices, as well as soft drinks.

Staff could still have sugar in tea or coffee. 

Food vending machines would have to offer at least 60% ''better choices''.

''Southern DHB desires to be a positive role model for the community through the development and implementation of healthy food and beverage policies and supporting practices.''

New Zealand was facing an epidemic of obesity, diabetes and other diet-related illnesses, the policy says.

The changes would affect food and drink provided or available for purchase in health board premises for employees or visitors.

It does not affect patient meals, meals on wheels, staff celebratory events, or food and drink bought elsewhere.

To counter ''staff dissatisfaction'', a strategy of ''clear communication regarding rationale'' has been recommended.

Drink changes would be phased in over three months, while the food changes would take longer.

The policy would also be subject to approval at the full board meeting tomorrow.

 

 


The proposals

• Remove sugary drinks from sale.

• Vending machines to include 60% ''better choices''.

• Low-fat dairy products for cooking when possible.

• At least 25% of sandwiches or savoury dishes to be vegetarian.

• Portion sizes to meet food service provider contract and should not be up-sized.

Source: Healthy Food and Beverages Environments Policy


 

 

Add a Comment

 

Advertisement