Ariz. hospital incorporates plant-based options to meet demand

Canyon Vista Medical Center in Sierra Vista recently added plant-based meal options to its menu in an effort to meet the demand of doctors, staff and patients who prefer a plant-forward diet.

Officials say the new menu items, including a plant-based pizza, were incorporated after staff participated in a two-day hands-on training event held in partnership with the Humane Society of the United States. The Food Forward event was led by chef Wanda White, a former executive operations chef at the University of North Texas who opened the nation’s first vegan dining hall, according to a release.

White taught participants about plant-based foods that are cost-effective and sustainable, as well as how to prepare entrees and desserts free of meat, egg and dairy.

“We are always looking to incorporate healthy menu options in our Canyon Café,” Christine Galloway, CVMC’s director of nutrition and food services, told FSD via email. “As for [room service], because of the cost of menu printing, we have not added any items as of yet to that menu.”