Health and wellness is becoming more important to the masses as people realise that eating healthy food makes them feel good and does reduce the risk of disease.

One hotel that has taken a holistic angle on the wellness trend is The Peninsula. Its comprehensive Peninsula Wellness programme includes light and healthy menu items, which it calls Naturally Peninsula.

The hotel secured the assistance of a leading US nutrition advisor to work with the “hotels’ award-winning chefs to develop menu choices that are well-balanced, healthy options appealing both to the eye and to the palate.”

A list of key ingredients and healthier cooking options was drawn up and acts as a reference when the chefs are developing new dishes. The nutrition advisor’s key recommendation is to use organic produce where possible. The hotel has established relationships with overseas organic produce suppliers and local organic farms in order to increase the organic options.

New NP dishes are introduced on a regular basis and are available at all of The Peninsula’s dining outlets, except Gaddi’s. Examples of what may be available include Organic Brown Rice Risotto with Wild Mushrooms and Arugula; Steamed Australian Coral Trout with Shanghai Brassica, Herbs and Mediterranean Flavours, Poached Chicken Breast with Green Asparagus and Baked Cherry Tomatoes, Papaya Bisque with Shellfish and Rock Fish; and Steamed Crab Claws with Bean Curd.

There is also a selection of organic teas, coffees and chocolates available.

Expect to see more restaurants and hotels jumping on the health bandwagon as a way to lure diners to return on a regular basis. Why cook healthy at home if you can eat healthy out!

by Vicki Williams
vicki@womguide.com