The number of meals the hunger relief programs in New York City can prepare has become more limited. Some innovative foundations are sourcing food in different ways in order to continue providing hunger relief. Many food programs have relied on extra food from grocery suppliers and farms. But as food systems experience more stress, these suppliers cannot meet the demand alone. So people like chefs and corporate sponsors are teaming up to provide meals that provide excellent nutrition.
One of the biggest issues with serving food across a large group of people in need is the preparation and storage. Relief programs are focusing new efforts on providing tasty, preservative-free meals without artificial ingredients. To meet this goal and provide as many meals as possible that require no preparation, they are using new packaging methods. Vacuum packaging has become a reliable way to fully cook meals and store them on a shelf for up to 18 months.
New methods of storing food in pouches include retort chamber packing. This is one method that eliminates the need for preservatives. It applies heat under pressure to completely seal the food, keeping it stable for 18 months. Caregivers and parents of young children are able to easily serve the food packaged this way. It is also easy to stack and isn’t prone to puncturing or water damage.
Meals like macaroni and cheese, jambalaya, and stir fry are examples of protein-packed meals that appeal to many. They make a great family meal that fosters community and hope.
Contact the Heavenly HARVST Foundation for more information online at Web
