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Healthy and sustainable food at the Máxima Center

Since early 2024, the Princess Máxima Center has joined the ‘Goede Zorg Proef Je’ initiative. This program promotes healthy and sustainable food in healthcare. What does this mean for the Máxima Center? Contract manager Esther Fijnekam and chef Niels Bron share a look behind the scenes. 

Tailored nutrition 

Esther explains: ‘At the Máxima, we have been working with the Peer & Poffer concept since our opening. This approach provides variety and customization. We aim to help children eat as well as possible, even during treatment.’ She shares an example: ‘A girl with chewing and swallowing difficulties could hardly eat. Niels visited her and discovered that she loved sweet dishes and casseroles.’ Niels adds: ‘I prepared casseroles with sweetened minced meat, vegetables, mashed potatoes, and cheese, adapted to her needs. She loved them!’ 

Healthy choices for everyone 

Good nutrition is scientifically proven to support recovery and treatment. The Máxima offers a broad range of food options and expert advice tailored to children, staff, and visitors. Healthy food also takes center stage in the restaurant. Esther notes: ‘We serve hybrid and plant-based dishes, like bread salads. Our dairy is organic, and we highlight seasonal dishes. This summer, we even introduced plant-based ice cream.’ 

Less waste, more sustainability 

The Máxima actively tackles food waste. Niels explains: ‘We leave room on the menu for creative dishes made with ingredients that need to be used. For instance, our soup is made by the Verspillingsfabriek (‘Waste Factory’) from surplus vegetables.’ 

Healthy 2025 

By signing the ‘Goede Zorg Proef Je’ initiative, the Máxima Center is taking steps toward a healthier food environment, in line with the National Prevention Agreement. Esther concludes: ‘As a Healthy 2025 Center, we work every day on healthier and more sustainable food. This really makes a difference for our children.’