At this year’s Westminster Healthier Catering Awards 18 local businesses have been recognised for their work in providing healthier food and drink options to help fight childhood obesity.
This is a priority for Westminster City Council as almost 1-in-4 children in reception year is either overweight or obese, and rises to over 1-in-3 by year six. In both categories Westminster exceeds the London and England average.*
This year’s award recipients have used different techniques, as advised by the Council, such as changing portion sizes, switching the type of oil they use, and reducing salt in their recipes.
The awards were presented by Westminster City Council on Friday 19 May at Portland house.
All businesses that qualified for the Healthier Catering Commitment this year were given a certificate and a window sticker to promote their healthier new menu. Including today’s recipients, there are now 37 businesses committed to providing healthier food across Westminster.
Councillor Heather Acton, Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health at Westminster City Council, said:
“Today’s award winners are proving that small changes in recipes can bring big health benefits.
“Tackling childhood obesity is one of the biggest challenges facing Westminster.
“These local businesses are providing Westminster children with a healthier eating option, and the awards recognise their important contribution.
“I would urge all local caterers to sign up for the Healthier Catering Commitment. They will not only qualify for next year’s awards but will also gain access to some great health advice for their business.”
Mark Douglas, Chief Operations Manager of the award-winning LHA London, said:
“We were delighted to receive this award as it shows the residents of our catered hotels that we care about their diet.
“Westminster City Council was able to give us simple and practical help to increase the health content of our food.
“We surveyed our guests after the dietary changes and satisfaction has only increased.
“We want our guests to be as happy and healthy as possible, and by providing and promoting healthier options we can achieve both.”
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