CMS memo reiterates nutrition service obligations for hospitals in light of updated dietary guidelines

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services March 20 released a memorandum reinforcing hospital nutrition service obligations for hospitals. The memo reminds hospitals of the Medicare conditions of participation that require hospitals to ensure menus and diets meet individual patient nutritional needs in accordance with recognized dietary practices. It also asks hospitals to review and revise their food and nutrition service policies, standard menus, therapeutic protocols and other practices to align with the recently released 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. CMS makes several recommendations for hospital inpatient menus, including limiting ultra-processed foods; eliminating sugar-sweetened beverages unless clinically appropriate in limited scenarios; eliminating refined grains and replacing them with 100% whole grains; prioritizing minimally processed protein sources, including plant-based options; and emphasizing vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, seafood and healthy fats.