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The Bunker

Eat yourself richer: Could better food fix our economy?

Feb 7, 2025
Kevin Morgan, Professor of Governance and Development at Cardiff University and author of 'Serving the Public', discusses the dire state of institutional food in the UK. He reveals how improving meals in schools, hospitals, and prisons could enhance public health and even stimulate economic growth. Morgan emphasizes the importance of nutritious, culturally appropriate food over mere fine dining. He also tackles the challenges posed by food lobbying and advocates for stronger government action to ensure better food access for all.
36:11

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Quick takeaways

  • Improving the quality of food in public institutions like schools and hospitals can enhance public health and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
  • Investing in better institutional food not only supports local businesses but also addresses social issues such as malnutrition and rehabilitation in prisons.

Deep dives

Defining Good Food

Good food is defined as appetizing, nutritious, culturally appropriate, and sustainably produced, moving beyond elite culinary associations. The Mediterranean diet serves as a practical example, emphasizing meals rich in vegetables, fruits, and pulses, while containing less but better-quality meat. It's acknowledged that healthier meals often come at a higher cost, posing a significant challenge for affordability. To address this, discussions about subsidization and the prioritization of good food in public institutions, such as schools, are essential and currently lacking.

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