According to research the number of UK vegetarians is predicted to double from 5% to 10% of the population within the next two years.
Apetito says plant-based food is one of fastest-growing food trends with more people adopting a ‘flexitarian diet’ where people aim to eat less meat but consume more vegetables.
Apetito’s in-house chefs and dietitian worked alongside guest chef Lydia Downey to create the collection of eight dishes. The recipes include:
- Vegan Thai red curry
- Fajita style tempeh
- BBQ Mexican bean & jackfruit
- Vegetable gratin
- Beetroot & feta frittata
- Meat free mushroom and chicken-style pie
- Katsu curry
- Butternut squash risotto
Downey said: “For those patients who are vegetarian or vegan, it is important for hospitals to be able to offer dishes which meet their needs in a way that is appetising and nutritious.
“Nutrition is incredibly important to me when I’m creating a dish, particularly focusing on elements such as protein and fibre as well as including a varied assortment of vegetables, all of which are essential considerations when making a plant-based meal.”
A plant-based diet can provide all the nutrients necessary for good health, including essential fats, protein, vitamins and minerals.
Rosemarie Hoyle, divisional manager of Healthcare at Apetito, added: “We know from talking to our customers that there is a rapidly growing need for more variety in vegetarian dishes as more people opt to follow a plant-based diet, whether for animal welfare, environmental or health reasons.
“We have developed these eight new dishes to add fresh inspiration to our range, and our aim is to enable hospitals to offer an enhanced choice in dishes, while delivering exceptional nutrition for patients.”