The “Farm to Table” style food and marketing has been trending in restaurants, but what about senior living?
There are many reasons why the “farm to table” trend is making its way to senior living. There’s no doubt that farm fresh food is healthier for everyone, especially as we age. Since organic and natural foods are becoming increasingly popular, they’re also becoming more affordable in larger scales. One point made by Senior Housing News explains how kitchen staff can order minimal amounts of produce needed that may not be significant enough of an order for food distributors. Home cooked, gourmet meals by high end chefs are also becoming increasingly popular to add to the flexibility and customization of today’s menus. A trend noticed with the senior population shows that the upcoming generation cares more about healthy eating, the dining experience, and varieties of food than previous generations.
As senior living communities are changing to a more sustainable approach, they are also building relationships with regional farmers and supporting locally harvested food. This is important for senior living communities to connect to their local community while also enjoying healthy and fresh seasonal food. Garden Spot Village in Pennsylvania is an example of a CCRC that offers farm fresh food. They have an aeroponic greenhouse that provides them year round organic produce for their four campus restaurants. Residents at Pathway to Living in Chicago take trips to the farms where their produce is grown. Farm to table has many benefits, especially for the residents and community.
