Apetito launches into the healthcare sector

Specialist frozen ready-made meal supplier and Cateys sponsor Apetito has launched into the care home sector.

A range of over 200 dishes draws on the company's experience in the healthcare sector and includes low-fat, diabetic and puréed options, as well as meeting cultural and religious dietary requirements.

Lee Sheppard, Apetito's business manager, care homes, said: "We currently supply 150 local authorities and 75 NHS trusts across the UK and so fully understand the difficulties encouraging older people to eat. Uptake so far is extremely positive with 25 care homes already on board and more in the pipeline."

Using Apetito's online product and nutrition database, Nutridata, care home operators can plan individual diets and ensure that all residents enjoy a nutritionally balanced menu over the course of a menu cycle.

As no preparation is required, Apetito's cook-freeze system allows operators greater flexibility of service.

The findings of the Care Quality Commission's review of ‘meeting the healthcare needs of people in care homes', which are due in November 2010, are likely to put increasing pressure on care home owners to improve the quality of food provision.

Sheppard said, "Our expertise means we can help care homes deliver over and above existing guidelines to ensure that residents benefit from the very best in nutritional care."

Speaking at the launch, Steve Geach, owner of English Oak Care Homes in Hampshire, said "As well as excellent menus, we have been fully supported with everything from meal planning through to nutritional modelling.

"The partnership with Apetito has not only led to an improvement in the quality of our food provision and satisfaction of our residents, but has reduced the space given to the kitchen facility, allowing for an additional bedroom and adding around £30k annually to my bottom line."