The International Convention Centre (ICC) in Birmingham has become the first conference centre in the UK to gain accreditation from Food for the Brain – an educational charity which promotes the importance of nutrition in mental health and well-being.
The process, led by in-house caterers Amadeus, involved multiple site trips by the appointed Food for the Brain Accreditation Relationship Manager, David Titman, over a six-month period.
Kathryn James, Managing Director of the NEC Group Conventions and Exhibitions said, “We are delighted that the ICC has achieved the Food for the Brain accreditation. We have worked very closely with our Accreditation Relationship Manager to ensure we developed a nutritionally balanced menu for our visiting delegates.
“For us to be named the first conference centre in UK to gain this accreditation is a huge achievement and we want to ensure delegates are fuelled correctly to make the most out of the events they are attending.”
Craig Hancox, Amadeus General Manager for the ICC, who was heavily involved in the process said, “This was a rigorous audit with numerous site visits outlining in detail what was expected of us and highlighting the areas we needed to adapt to ensure we fulfilled the accreditation requirements. It was important for both us and Food for the Brain that we didn’t devalue the accreditation in any way.
“Our Executive Head Chef, Simon Hellier, has created a wonderful menu that supports the philosophy, methodology and nutrition recommended by Food for the Brain. We have also invested in the training of our teams – from the sales team to the front of house team – so they understand they have the education behind the principles to inform clients and delegates exactly what our food means for them.
“The accreditation recognises that the ICC and Amadeus has achieved high standards of nutritional excellence and are well-balanced to support mental well-being concentration and performance.”
Food for the Brain Foundation Chief Executive Jenna Mosimann, said, “Food for the Brain is delighted to award the ICC our accreditation. This accreditation recognises that the ICC offers nutritionally balanced menus which support energy, concentration and performance, and help promote better mental and physical well-being.”
