UK’s first vegan hot meal vending machine for NHS staff arrives at London Hospital

Image: Open Kitchen co

Mohsina Dodhiya15th October 202015th October 2020Food, London, News

“The NHS has been doing an incredible job of keeping the country afloat during this terrible pandemic, and it’s been a pleasure to collaborate to improve the quality of NHS staff diets across the country.”

NHS staff at Hillingdon Hospital in Greater London will now have access to hot vegan meals via a new vending machine to keep them healthy and energised during prolonged shifts and a demanding work schedule.

Following a survey of NHS employees, which revealed that 78 percent of staff members would eat a hot vegan meal if available, subscription company Vibrant Vegan has installed its vegan vending machine in partnership with Open Kitchen Co.

Supporting the frontliners

The move is also part of a project which aims to have 500 machines installed in hospitals across the UK by 2023.

“As we all know, the NHS has been doing an incredible job of keeping the country afloat during this terrible pandemic, and it’s been a pleasure to collaborate with Open Kitchen Co. to try and make a difference – we’re confident the partnership is going to improve the quality of NHS staff diets across the country,” Iain Burke-Hamilton, founder of Vibrant Vegan, said.

Vibrant Vegan will be stocking 18 of its award-winning meals in the machines including: Super Mac & Cheeze, Piri Piri Jambalaya, Mumbai Cauli Thali, and No-Meatball Bolognese.

According to the brand, these protein-rich meals can be dispensed from the machine hot or cold, allowing staff the choice to heat them in the microwave if they wish.

‘The future of vending is exciting’

Liz Kenny, Director of Open Kitchen Co, added: “It’s great to be working with the NHS and providing staff and visitors with hot, tasty and nutritious meals 24/7.

“The future of vending is exciting. Our high-tech machines have touchless COVID-proof technology, advanced software, and a super speedy oven that can cook meals from frozen in 3-4 minutes.

“Suitable for all cuisines and all environments our machine can be a great cost saving solution for business whilst meeting the dietary needs of all.”