Healthcare

How the Baby Boomers’demands will transform healthcare

The growing population of older adults, driven by longer lifespans, is set to transform healthcare systems globally. By 2030, one in six people will be aged 60 or older, according to the World Health Organization. This “grey tsunami” will place unprecedented pressure on healthcare infrastructure, with the food service industry in this sector projected to grow by 11.5% annually by 2026.

Baby Boomers, unlike the Silent Generation, are vocal about their preferences, particularly in retirement homes. They seek fulfillment and high-quality experiences, with food being a central part of daily life. As they age, their expectations for personalized and diverse services, especially in dining, will reshape these facilities.

However, many older adults will choose to remain in their homes for longer, thanks to medical advances and rising costs in retirement homes. Home healthcare, mobility support, and meal delivery services are becoming essential for maintaining independence and postponing the financial burden of long-term care. As a result, there is a growing demand for meal delivery services that cater specifically to their dietary needs and preferences.

This trend highlights the need for high-quality, nutritious meals that meet the standards of both institutional dining and home delivery. Consumers expect meals that are not only convenient but also tailored to their health requirements and personal tastes. The food service industry must adapt to these evolving expectations, ensuring that all dining experiences – whether in homes, hospitals, or care facilities – are engaging, satisfying, and supportive of the health and well-being of older adults.

Achieving cost efficiencies

Crafting healthcare menus requires skill, creativity, and expertise. Chefs must meet specific dietary needs, both for standard and texture-modified meals, while balancing nutrition, rising food costs, and staff shortages. This means delivering flavourful and appealing meals within tight budgets is increasingly challenging.

Cheese and fruit are essential ingredients to enhance both taste and nutrition. Cheese can add richness to soups, sauces, and pasta, while improving the flavour of vegetable dishes. Ready-to-eat cheese portions are convenient for boosting protein and calcium intake at meals or as snacks, helping control costs without sacrificing quality.

Fruits offer natural sweetness and essential nutrients, making them ideal for older adults with diminished taste. They can be served as purees, blended into smoothies, or added to desserts like ice cream or pudding. With a growing importance placed on sweet dishes, fruit helps satisfy cravings while supporting health through vitamins, minerals, and fibre.

Creating great flavours with cheese and fruit

In healthcare kitchens, enhancing the nutritional value and taste of meals for elderly patients is a priority. The Laughing Cow® Professional Formula Plus boosts calcium, vitamin D, and protein content, enriching dishes without sacrificing flavour or increasing quantities. Its smooth texture works across various meals, from soups to desserts, offering versatility in both sweet and savoury applications.

For extra flavour, Boursin® Professional brings a delicious twist to pastas, soups, and vegetables, turning simple dishes into comforting meals. For plant-based alternatives, Nurishh® offers a meltable, low-carbon vegan cheese solution ideal for the growing demand for sustainable options.

Kiri® Professional adds a creamy richness to desserts like cheesecakes and smoothies, but also enhances soups and sandwiches with its soft texture. Portion packs from Babybel®, Boursin®, The Laughing Cow®, and Kiri® provide convenient, protein-rich snacks that ensure essential nutrients throughout the day.

For a fruit-based option, GoGo squeeZ® fruit pouches deliver a smooth, nutritious snack with no added sugar. Available in various flavours, they are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. The easy-to-hold format and smooth texture make them simple to consume. Suitable for a range of dietary needs, being dairy-, nut-, and gluten-free.

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