In the afternoon of the 29th of May we began to set up for the highly anticipated workshop “Reducing food Waste” we wanted to ensure we minimise any problems prior to our big day. Unfortunately a lesson in measuring table cloths is now required for every event. Lol
On the 30th of May at Ipswich Hospital in Suffolk the HCA East Anglian Branch hosted the informative workshop covering the topical subject of “Reducing Food Waste” in healthcare and other catering providers.
All delegates were able to try the delights of a fresh brew and pastries on arrival courtesy of OCS. Ipswich hospital outsourced provider of catering services.
Delegates had the opportunity to have their photo taken with a “reducing food waste” photo booth made by Sarah Gray, Team Leader from Aldeburgh Hospital.
The workshop was introduced by our Chairman Kevin Cowley with an audience of 80 delegates travelling nationwide to attend our event.
Wendy Duncan our first speaker kicked of the proceedings discussing Unilever international work around reducing food waste. Wendy highlighted there new app which is a food waste reduction tool which is free of charge and downloadable from their website. https://www.unileverfoodsolutions.co.uk/chef-inspiration/from-chefs-for-chefs/work-smart/food-waste-reduction.html
Wendy played an interesting YouTube video highlighting food waste and the financial implications and costs: https://monaghan.ie/environment/environmental-awareness/
Kevin introduced Scott Brown from Saffron an IT solutions company.
Scott discussed the benefits new age technology can bring to the party. Technology is able to help support a patient’s journey from admission to discharge. Scott gave the example about changing of patient’s circumstances and moving from one ward to another and how meals can get lost in the transition process. By using IT systems these can be updated automatically enabling meals to be delivered to the new ward or area the patient is now in. This alone would save time, energy and money.
Mid-morning break OCS provided a selection of beverages and tasty treats. All were devoured by the delegates!!!
Last but not least, Dave Tucker, Waste Manager from SERCO ASP took to the stage.
To discuss the legislative effects upon food reduction policies in practice. Dave highlighted the environmental impact this was having on the world and provided information on up and coming developments in reducing the carbon footprint around associated food waste. Dave highlighted the effects of plastic waste packaging on the animal kingdom and England’s coastline.
Lunch was provided by the “Healthy food company”. Nanny Kay gave a brief introduction on the company and how it started detailing its values, ethos and objectives to meet the nutritional needs of clients within healthcare and education settings.
After lunch Paul Fenton Director of Estates and Facilities for “East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust” drew the raffle for the eager delegates who had purchased raffle tickets. The raffle was not just about raising funds but also to raise the profile of Ipswich hospital “children’s appeal” which is aiming to redevelop the children unit at Ipswich hospital and has a target of 2.5 million. The raffle raised a total of £143.00 which was presented to Katrina Copping, Corporate and Trust Fundraising Officer.
Kevin Cowley closed the event giving thanks to all the presenters for giving their time, the suppliers who provider goody bags and to the wonderful committee who dedicated there time and commitment to organising this great event. I thank you all.
Once we collected the feedback from these were collated and a poster was created and shared giving details of our learning to delegates from the day.
Lots of pictures were taken of the event throughout the day and these were uploaded, shared and tweeted to our twitter account @ea_Caterers. Please look us up and follow us.
