Premier found that only 46% of patients, 46% of visitors and 43% of employees have positive views of hospital food.
However, respondents who have eaten either as a patient or visitor in an NHS hospital in the past five years say the food is getting better, and more than two thirds of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that there was a good choice of food available.
Premier revealed that 87% of visitors have eaten in a NHS hospital when visiting a patient.
The research also found that 46% of staff members surveyed said they make sure they eat healthily, with reducing sugar intake a priority. 17% of staff agreed or strongly agreed that they felt satisfied after eating a hospital meal.
As a result of the research, Premier has launched its new Hospital Solutions Guide, which aims to offer caterers choices that are tasty, appetising and suitable for their diners’ needs.
Sarah Robb, channel marketing manager at Premier Foods, said: “The recipes we’ve developed can be flexed to meet a range of needs and dietary requirements. This includes our new Crustless Quiche recipe, which is perfect as a satisfying snack or a finger food option for elderly patients, and our McDougalls cake recipes – an ideal option for dessert or afternoon tea.”
The research was conducted on behalf of Premier Foods by YouGov in February 2017.