Hospital food to meet new standards

Mr Hunt warned that, while some organisations are delivering decent food and drink for NHS patients, others are “falling short”.

The new rules come after an inquest revealed that neglect by medical staff led to the death of a hospital patient who called 999 because he was so thirsty. The new standards state that: “All patients should have access to fresh drinking water at all times, unless it contradicts clinical advice.”

Mr Hunt also said that food and drink should be available at all times of the day – not just meal times.

Patients should also have the choice from a varied menu, including meals suitable for religious needs, he said.

Catering staff should also reduce the fat and salt content in food and introduce more fruit and vegetables.

Hospitals will be inspected to ensure that they are adhering to the guidance.

Teams of inspectors, half of whom will be patients, will examine the taste, quality and temperature of food as well as the cleanliness of ward kitchens.

Mr Hunt said of the initiative: “Patients should be treated with dignity and respect. They have the right to expect food that is of high quality and healthy – and that it has been prepared in a clean kitchen.

“There are lots of hospitals already doing this, but in some places, the NHS falls short.

“Patients deserve the highest standards, and by making sure they lead the inspections, we will put their experience at the heart of improving the NHS.”

British Dietetic Association honorary chair Helen Davidson, added: “The potential for good nutrition to improve hospital care is huge.”