Published
18/08/2025 às 11:05

Pioneering project brings cultivation of spices, herbs and vegetables to offshore vessels, offering nutrition and shelter even miles away from dry land

A Sodexo, a global reference in food services and facilities, took an innovative step in 2024 when launching the cultivation of spices, fresh herbs and vegetables on board vessels at sea. The project is part of the concept Offshore Living, which transforms the experience of those who work on platforms and ships.

According to the Director of Offshore Operations, Renata Sebben, the proposal seeks to combine hospitality and food freshness. “Our commitment is to take care of people, providing meals grown on board, tasty and free of agricultural pesticides”, highlighted.

The hydroponic gardens installed onboard allow for efficient production in confined spaces, using nutrient solutions that reach the plant roots directly. This way, the food is harvested in the vessels’ own restaurants, enhancing a unique dining experience.

Fresh food in extreme conditions

Working weeks away from home is a reality marked by physical and emotional challenges. However, Sodexo has found a way to offer comfort on board: hydroponic gardens that guarantee nutritious vegetables and fresh herbs every day.

This production model reinforces the feeling of welcome. After all, for shipboard workers, tasty, fresh meals represent more than nutrition: they mean well-being, motivation, and care amid the challenging ocean environment.

The Offshore Living concept in detail

Created on 2023 and expanded in 2024, Offshore Living is based on four pillars that structure maritime hospitality:

• safe: constant reinforcement of security on board.
• Savor: healthy, fresh and tasty food.
• Comfort: services that promote physical and emotional comfort.
• Plus: full support for offshore life.

These pillars work together to ensure a more human and differentiated experience. Hydroponic cultivation fits into this pillar. savor, but it also strengthens everyone else, as it directly impacts collective well-being.

Social impact and quality of life in the ocean

Em 2024, Sodexo consolidated the idea that hospitality must also be present on the high seasThe inclusion of hydroponic gardens brought immediate benefits: fresh, diverse, pesticide-free meals became part of the daily routine.

This care nourishes not only the body, but also the morale of the crew. For many workers, the taste of a fresh herb makes all the difference during long periods away from home., reinforcing the link with life on land.

The Future of Offshore Hospitality

Sodexo’s initiative positions Brazil prominently in the international maritime hospitality scene. The use of hydroponic gardens on vessels is still rare in the sector, but it is already emerging as a benchmark in innovation and sustainability.

Looking ahead, facilities experts believe the model can be expanded. After all, producing fresh food in hostile environments isn’t just a competitive advantage: it’s a structural transformation that redefines standards. offshore life.

The question that now arises is clear: Do you believe this innovation should be expanded to all vessels in the sector, becoming the norm for the future of maritime hospitality?