Overview

• The Spanish government has launched a month-long public consultation (May 22–June 21) to shape a royal decree regulating meals in hospitals and elderly residences.
• The initiative builds on the school meals decree approved in April, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and the exclusion of ultraprocessed foods.
• Malnutrition affects 25% of hospitalized patients and at least 28% of elderly care residents, leading to longer recovery times, higher infection risks, and over €1.1 billion in annual public costs.
• The Federation Empresarial de la Dependencia opposes the decree, citing concerns about its practicality and alignment with real-world operations.
• Officials stress the importance of nutrition as a universal right, aiming to ensure healthier, more sustainable meals in institutions serving vulnerable populations.