Nutrition report: Promoting healthier lives every day

Your questions answered

• What is Sodexo’s overall approach to nutrition?

  The science of nutrition guides Sodexo's chefs and menu development, aiming to provide food that is nutritious, sustainable, affordable, and tasty.

• What are "Future 50" ingredients? 

  These are a specific group of ingredients identified as being both nutritious and having a low environmental impact. Sodexo collaborates with Knorr Professional and WWF to embed these sustainable vegetables, grains, and pulses into their dishes.

• What does "plant-forward" mean in this report?

  A "plant-forward" dish is defined as one where two-thirds of the ingredients are plant-based.

• What is the "Smart Choice" brand?

  Launched in 2025, Smart Choice is a brand designed to help guests identify healthier snacks and drinks at a glance.

  • Snacks: Must be 200 calories or fewer and have only ‘Green’ or ‘Amber’ traffic light ratings (unless a ‘Red’ rating comes from natural nutrients like fat in nuts) .
  • Drinks: Must have no added sugar, be non-caffeinated, and contain 300 calories or fewer for milk-based beverages.

• What makes a meal a "Better Choice" in the Kitchen Works range?

  A "Better Choice" meal is a complete meal with a carbohydrate source that meets at least two health claims (such as high protein, high fibre, low fat, or being 1 of 5-a-day). These meals must also fall below specific calorie thresholds, such as fewer than 600kcal for a main meal.

• How does diet impact brain health according to the report? 

  The report states that up to 80% of future health outcomes may be determined by diet and lifestyle. Furthermore, 45% of dementia cases could potentially be prevented or delayed by targeting modifiable risk factors like diet.

• What is a "neuroprotective" diet?

  Based on the report The Vibrant Mind, this diet emphasizes high consumption of green leafy vegetables, berries, whole grains, and fish rich in omega-3, while limiting ultra-processed foods, sodium, and added sugars.

• How does Sodexo handle food allergens?

  The Nutrition and Dietetics team verifies data for every product to ensure it meets allergen standards. They maintain tight controls on provenance, provide clear labeling (including for prepacked goods), and can create recipes that avoid specific ingredients for groups like school children.

• What standards are followed for school lunches? 

  Sodexo follows the UK government School Food Standards. This includes providing fruit, vegetables, and protein daily, while meat must be served at least three days a week and oily fish at least once every three weeks.

• How is food managed for the armed forces? 

  For UK service personnel, Sodexo follows Ministry of Defence guidance for the "Military Performance Plate," which proportions proteins, starches, and fibre-rich dishes based on an individual's activity level.

• What standards do hospital meals meet?

  Hospital meals must meet Government Buying Standards, follow the Eatwell Guide, and comply with the British Dietetic Association Nutrition and Hydration Digest. 

  This includes reducing salt and sugar while increasing the availability of fibre and ensuring adequate hydration.