Spain’s government is set to introduce new regulations that will ensure hospitals and nursing homes provide healthy, nutritious meals to patients and elderly residents. This initiative follows the recent introduction of similar guidelines for school cafeterias and is part of the government’s broader effort to promote healthier eating across public institutions.
The Ministries of Social Rights and Health are preparing a royal decree that will set minimum standards for the quality of food served in hospitals and nursing homes. Social Rights Minister Pablo Bustinduy announced the measure on Thursday, stating that the regulation would mirror the one approved last month for school canteens, which emphasizes healthier food options.
The new standards will require hospitals and nursing homes to meet specific nutritional and sustainability benchmarks, ensuring that meals are not only healthy but also environmentally responsible. While Bustinduy did not provide further specifics, similar initiatives for schools have included mandates for an increased supply of vegetables, fruits, fresh fish, and legumes. In contrast, unhealthy options like sugary drinks, pastries, fried foods, and pre-packaged or processed meals will be banned.
Minister Bustinduy explained that the regulation is designed to improve food quality in hospitals and nursing homes, which he described as “centres of special relevance.” He acknowledged the public’s concerns and complaints about the quality of food in these institutions, noting that the new rules are a response to widespread calls for improvement.
“Menus will be based on dietary recommendations for healthy and sustainable eating, adjusted to different age groups and contexts,” Bustinduy stated. The regulation aims to address the need for healthier food options for both patients and elderly residents in these vital care facilities.
This move is part of Spain’s ongoing efforts to combat rising health concerns related to poor diet, including childhood obesity. With a growing focus on nutritious meals in public institutions, Spain is setting a precedent for food policies that prioritize health and sustainability.
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