The latest edict by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg to promote healthier dining took effect last week. This time, the mayor targeted public and private hospitals within the city limits.
Under the Healthy Hospital Food Initiative, a set of New York City Food Standards implemented at the end of September, hospitals food is regulated in four sections: cafeterias, food vending machines, beverage vending machines and patient meals. These standards are consistent with U.S. Department of Agriculture Dietary Guidelines for a healthy diet and uses progressive approaches to make healthy foods more available.
All 15 of New York City Health and Hospital Corporations’ public medical facilities have adopted healthy food changes, while 16 private hospitals have committed to participating in the program.