250-Plus US Hospitals Sign Healthier Food Pledge

The Department of Health and Human Services says more than 250 hospitals across 28 states have signed its Make Hospital Food Healthier Pledge, announced by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at Corewell Health in Grand Rapids. Participating hospitals commit to making nutrition a greater part of patient care and improving food options for patients, staff and visitors. The pledge calls for more nutrient-dense, scratch-cooked meals, nutrition information and counseling for patients, and diverse, affordable dining choices. The announcement builds on federal guidance urging hospitals to limit highly processed foods, added sugars and other less nutritious options, while Corewell says it is emphasizing whole foods and reducing sugar and sodium.