As construction continues for UCLA Health’s new neuropsychiatric hospital in the Los Angeles, California’s Mid-Wilshire area, plans are underway for what is believed to be California’s first all-electric hospital kitchen. The transition from gas to electric cooking reflects a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing sustainable practices.
UCLA Health is working closely with vendors, industry experts and Southern California Edison. The utility is offering a test kitchen where dining services staff will train on the types of electric equipment to be installed in the new hospital’s kitchen. Cooking times and temperatures may differ on electric versus other equipment.
The kitchen is expected to be completed six months ahead of the hospital opening so staff can test menu items and develop processes that ensure quality and consistency.
“We’re not just transitioning from gas to electric grilling; we’re modeling the change necessary to transition into a new way of life,” says Genesis Robinson, administrative director of food and nutrition services at UCLA Health.
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