Municipalities in Sydnärke have completed a new joint procurement for food supplies to all municipal activities. Kitchen staff from Askersund, Kumla, Hallsberg, Laxå and Lekeberg attended an inspiration fair at Kulturhuset Sjöängen to view the products. The deal comes amid criticism over frozen meals delivered to the elderly.
The municipalities in Sydnärke – Askersund, Kumla, Hallsberg, Laxå and Lekeberg – have signed a new four-year agreement for food supplies to activities including preschools, schools and elderly homes. Products from suppliers were displayed at a mini-fair in Kulturhuset Sjöängen in Askersund for invited staff.
Peter Eineren, responsible for food services in Askersund municipality and the procurement, called the event a chance for chefs to gain inspiration. "This is an opportunity for the chefs in the municipalities to get some inspiration," he said. The deal prioritizes Swedish products where possible, with price as a key factor.
Criticism has arisen over delivering frozen food and ready meals to elderly people at home instead of cooked meals, particularly in Askersund, as discussed on Sveriges Radio. Eineren stressed that this decision is unrelated to the food agreement and is a separate logistics issue for the social committee. "With this procurement, we can continue to provide nutritious and good food," he said.
Anders Djupfeldt from main supplier Menigo voiced reservations about elderly heating their own meals but highlighted food's role in quality of life. He noted quality controls and requirements for fair working conditions among subcontractors. Challenges included meeting varying municipal demands and national guidelines.
Visitors appreciated the fair. "Fun to see the possibilities. You get some ideas," said one attendee. Emelia Holmer from Feldts Fisk added: "It's fun to show what we can do."