Catering team shortlisted for national waste award

Solent’s catering team is in line for a national award in recognition of its “incredible” coloured crockery initiative which cut food waste by 20%.

The team has been shortlisted in the Awards for Excellence in Waste Management 2024, designed to celebrate initiatives which have potential to make a real difference within the NHS.

Judges said Solent NHS Estates and Facilities’ entry stood out for being outstanding. In October, it will be revealed if the team has scooped bronze, silver or gold in the best reduction of food waste category.

The project detailed how blue plates and bowls had been introduced at Solent’s community hospitals in Southampton and Portsmouth after trials showed the coloured crockery cut food waste by a fifth.

Iain Robertson, Solent’s catering operations manager, said the dramatic results meant more patients were eating more food which, in turn, aided recovery.

Feedback from patients was described as “phenomenal”, with some saying the blue crockery gave their hospital meal a restaurant feel.

Mark Young, Deputy Director of Estates and Facilities at Solent NHS Trust, said: “This trial was so simple, based on the idea that coloured crockery makes food look more appealing and therefore people enjoy it more.

“The results were incredible and the team quickly implemented the crockery across our two main hospital sites.

“I am delighted the project has won national recognition as it is thoroughly deserved and hopefully may encourage other NHS organisations to follow suit.”

 

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