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Bringing food and drink into hospitals: Guidance for visitors

This page is currently being developed.

This information is available in large print, other formats, Welsh and other languages upon request:

  • West Area: 03000 851709
  • Central Area: 03000 856047
  • East Area: 03000 847266

General Information

The Health Board (BCUHB) is legally required to provide food for the patients in our care that is safe and nutritious.  This means we have to take care with how food is made, handled, and stored.

We understand that there are good reasons to bring extra food in to our hospitals for patients sometimes.

This leaflet provides information for patients and their visitors about the types of food that are suitable to bring in to hospitals, and explains why other foods are not allowed.

The meals we serve to patients every day are carefully prepared and designed to offer patients a healthy, nutritious and balanced diet of set selected menus with a range of hot and cold food and drinks. Patients are encouraged to select a nutritious and safe food choice with appropriate advice given where required by dietitians and other health professionals.

We must also ensure that any foods brought in to our hospitals are suitable. This helps us to prevent or reduce the risk of infection, allergy, food poisoning and food borne illnesses and unwanted interaction with prescribed medication.

What can I bring in for my relative or friend?

  • You can speak to the Nurse in charge of the ward about suitable foods to bring in
  • All food brought in should be suitable for the dietary needs of the patient
  • Please help us to help patients by bringing in food that contributes to a nutritious balanced diet
  • Food and drink may also be an important part of providing some pleasure for those in hospital
  • All packaging on items should be intact
  • ‘Use By’ or ‘Best before’ dates must NOT have passed

What can’t I bring for my relative or friend?

Any food or drink that needs to be stored in the fridge or other cupboards if not all consumed in one sitting. We are unable to store these items.

Below gives more information about the types of foods you can and cannot bring in to our hospitals.


Homecooked meals & takeaways

Due to food safety considerations we are not permitted to re-heat home cooked meals within the hospital.

We discourage takeaways being brought into hospital as we cannot ensure the food safety of these.

If your friend or relative has any difficulties in choosing suitable meals from the menu please do speak with a member of nursing staff.  Our catering teams are able to work flexibly to ensure that we meet all special dietary needs.

What can I eat whilst visiting a friend or relative in hospital?

We recognise that there are times when visitors may be at the hospital for long periods of time and may wish to bring food with them.  We kindly request that any food brought in for this purpose is not shared with patients unless it meets the guidance within this leaflet.

Further information

For further information please speak to the nursing team by contacting switchboard and asking for the relevant ward:

  • Bangor: 01248 384 384
  • Glan Clwyd: 03000 855 934
  • Wrexham Maelor: 01978 291100

Email: bcu.info@wales.nhs.uk