A Fresh Approach to Food at The WRAP Nursery

“We believe that nurturing happy and healthy children goes hand-in-hand with caring for our planet”, says Co-foudner of WRAP Ed Patey. “In 2021 we decided to bring our nursery food preparation ‘in-house’ to focus on a plant-based menu that promotes our core values - sustainability, health, and inclusivity.” Read on to hear about Ed’s journey and why choosing this approach was so important.

Our family’s journey to plant-based eating

Our journey started with a family conversation. When our eldest daughter was six months old, my sister-in-law decided to cut all animal protein from her diet - a big shift for my wife’s family who were raised on a beef farm in Wales! But Sarah and I trusted her reasoning and began our own research into the health and environmental impacts of animal protein. Within a surprisingly short timeframe, we felt ready to make a change ourselves, committing to a plant-based diet that aligned with our concern for the environment and our desire to feed our family the healthiest possible diet. Over the past six years, we have re-educated ourselves on how to cook and create satisfying and nutritious meals, using only plants and a variety of whole foods. As a result, we feel lighter, healthier, and we have so much more energy!

Why sustainability matters

The environmental toll of livestock farming is massive. 34% of all greenhouse gas emissions come from the global food system, with meat and dairy production being among the biggest contributors. In addition, about 59% of all land suitable for growing crops is used to produce animal feed. By focusing on plant-based ingredients, at home and in our business, we are making the biggest possible difference that we can, to reduce our carbon footprint and help preserve vital resources including water, land, and biodiversity.

Our menu is thoughtfully designed to minimise its environmental impact. We use as many local, in-season and organic ingredients as possible, aiming to support regenerative farming practices while keeping within our budget. With all of the children in our care (and many of our team) enjoying the same meals, we also reduce waste and streamline food preparation. 

A nutritional foundation for healthy growing

Health is another key factor in our approach to food. Research shows that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes support not only physical health but also cognitive development and mental well-being. Children raised on nutrient-dense, plant based diets, have a lower risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and other chronic conditions later in life.

At WRAP, we work closely with a paediatric dietitian to ensure our meals are high in fibre and include all the essential nutrients they need, like protein, calcium, iron, omega-3s and B vitamins…to mention a few that are often a concern for parents. Our meals are rich in whole grains, pulses, and leafy greens, which are excellent sources of protein, calcium, folic acids and iron and we incorporate seeds such as flax, hemp and pumpkin for healthy fats. We also keep ultra processed ingredients such as non-dairy spreads, pasta, breakfast cereals and supermarket bread to a minimum, using fruits like bananas and dates as a sweetener where required.  

Inclusivity through plant-based meals

Our plant-based (and nut free) menu promotes inclusivity as most of our children can enjoy the same dishes. Everyone can sit together and eat plant based food, unlike vegetarian, meat based or pescatarian. The challenge of allergens and cross contamination is significantly reduced which simplifies food preparation and reduces food envy among the children. By focusing on natural, wholesome foods, we also minimise the consumption of ultra-processed products, which are linked to behavioural and health issues in young children.

A balanced perspective

We understand that not all families share the same views on diet and we respect that these choices are personal. We also believe it is our responsibility to provide the healthiest, most sustainable meals we can for children whilst they are in our care, setting a foundation for lifelong health. For those who choose to include animal protein in their child’s diet, there is plenty of opportunity to include this in their diet outside of nursery. Considering the changing landscape of food from a health and environmental perspective, we believe that introducing children to a whole foods, plant-based diet helps them develop a taste for fresh, diverse flavours and adapt to eating habits that support a sustainable future.