Meallmore Celebrates Veggie Hero Shortlist for Plant-Based Care Excellence

We’re delighted to share that Jody Marshall, Group Hospitality Manager, has been shortlisted for the VfL Veggie Hero Award as part of the 2025 Awards for Excellence in Vegetarian & Vegan Care Catering - a national accolade that honours innovators in compassionate, plant-based care catering.

Why Plant-Based Recognition Matters

This year’s theme, “Beyond the Plate: Upholding Beliefs, Raising Standards,” emphasises that care catering isn’t just about food - it’s about honouring beliefs, ethics, and personal choices. As the population ages, inclusivity becomes increasingly vital.

Recent data reveals a 24% increase in vegan and vegetarian residents in UK care homes over the past decade, and in nursing homes specifically, over 40% now accommodate these dietary lifestyles. (VfL survey) This makes plant-based catering not a niche option, but an essential service for person-centred care.

What the Nomination Means for Meallmore

Jody’s nomination is a powerful testament to Meallmore’s inclusive approach:

• Acknowledges our commitment to providing nutritious and ethically aligned plant-based meals
• Reflects our respect for dietary diversity, rooted in cultural, ethical, and health values
• Underscores our leadership in innovating person-centred, compassionate care

Linking Values to Action

This recognition aligns closely with our C.A.R.E. values:

• Create meals that are not only nourishing, but considerate of dietary ethics and needs
• Act with excellence, bringing high culinary and nutritional standards to every plate
• Recognise the preferences and wellbeing of our residents through thoughtful choices
• Engage with communities by collaborating with residents, families, and sector partners on dietary inclusion

For our residents, it means daily respect and dignity at mealtimes. For families, it offers reassurance that personal values are honoured. For colleagues, it’s a proud symbol of meaningful work.

Sector Context and Impact

As care providers, it’s not enough to offer a choice - we must deliver with compassion and quality. Research links malnutrition in care residents to significant declines in health and independence. Offering plant-based options that are well-designed and nutritionally complete directly supports physical health, hydration, immune function, and mood.

By being shortlisted, Meallmore is recognised for making sure plant-based meals are more than an afterthought—they are possibilities for real nourishment and positive experiences.

What’s Next

The VfL awards ceremony will take place at the Houses of Parliament on 22 October 2025, marking a prestigious moment for the sector. Regardless of the outcome, being a finalist already sets a high benchmark.

Looking ahead, we will:

• Continue crafting inclusive, creative menus that honour diverse dietary needs
• Train teams in respectful, high-quality plant-based catering
• Collaborate with residents and families to ensure their voices are heard and honoured

A Shared Celebration

We’re proud of Jody Marshall his leadership and advocacy reflect a commitment to dignity, choice, and care that enriches our homes. This nomination celebrates the legacy of thoughtful, inclusive hospitality in care.

At Meallmore, we’re not just serving meals - we’re supporting lives that reflect personal beliefs, holistic wellbeing, and unwavering respect.