Low-protein cooking workshops have become an essential tool for improving the quality of life of people with inherited metabolic disorders, such as phenylketonuria (PKU) and other metabolic conditions that require strict dietary management. Both Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu in Barcelona have organized numerous editions of these workshops in recent years, adapting them to the specific needs of each patient and their families.
The first workshop at Clínic
Hospital Clínic was one of the pioneers in offering this type of training, hosting its first low-protein cooking workshop in 2014. This initial experience laid the foundation for an initiative that has grown over time, involving healthcare professionals, patient associations, and specialized food industry representatives.
In collaboration with associations such as the Catalan Association of Hereditary Metabolic Disorders, Clínic has organized several events to promote low-protein cooking. A notable example is the SuperChef Workshop, which combines hands-on training with the preparation of adapted recipes, focusing on making dietary options more accessible and varied for patients with special dietary needs.
Initiatives from Sant Joan de Déu and the Guía Metabólica
Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, through its Guía Metabólica platform, has developed workshops such as “La Cuineta,” aimed at families and caregivers of pediatric patients. These sessions feature the preparation of innovative recipes, such as Ketopan, Konjac rice with chicken and vegetables, and Konjac spaghetti Bolognese. The goal is to help families manage special diets practically and effectively. Additionally, the Guía Metabólica offers an extensive collection of adapted recipes, providing a valuable resource for families and healthcare professionals.
A collective effort
These initiatives, led by professionals from both hospitals, not only provide practical knowledge but also help improve adherence to dietary treatments and foster a sense of community among patients and families. Thanks to these efforts, many families can face the challenges of managing an inherited metabolic disorder with greater confidence.