Leading leisure operator Sheffield International Venues (SIV) has been awarded special status in recognition of its commitment to providing healthy food options.

Nine facilities managed by SIV have achieved Sheffield Healthy Choices Award status for offering customers balanced and nutritious food, healthier alternatives and demonstrating the importance of healthy eating.

The venues awarded the status include the English Institute of Sport – Sheffield (EIS Sheffield), Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, Don Valley Stadium, iceSheffield, Hillsborough Leisure Centre, Concord Sports Centre, Westfield Sports Centre, Sheffield City Hall and Sheffield Arena.

It comes as three SIV facilities have also been nominated for an award at the Healthy Choices ceremony, which is taking place at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough football ground on Wednesday, January 27.

In the Best Healthy Choices Award category, EIS Sheffield has been shortlisted for its flexibility in food preparation, understanding the benefits of providing healthier menu choices and support for referrals who suffer from obesity.

Ponds Forge and Hillsborough Leisure Centre have both been nominated for the Breastfeeding Friendly award.

David Wagstaff, group food and beverage manager for SIV, said: “Achieving Sheffield Healthy Choices Award status is extremely important to SIV. It demonstrates how, across the company, we are complying with food safety and healthy eating criteria as well as being breastfeeding friendly, sourcing food locally and serving fair-trade products.

“Research shows that one in six meals in the UK are now eaten outside the home, which is why it is vital to offer well-balanced and nutritious food options to our customers.

“This award is not just about eating salads and drinking water, but providing information and opportunities for customers to make a positive choice about what they are eating. It is about making healthy food accessible for everyone.”

The Sheffield Healthy Choices Award was developed in 2006 and is delivered by the Food in Sheffield (5 A DAY) Programme at Sheffield Wildlife Trust in partnership with NHS Sheffield and Sheffield City Council.

SIV’s four golf courses – Beauchief, Birley Wood, Tinsley Park and Tapton - will be assessed for Sheffield Healthy Choices Award status later this year.