- Published:
- Thursday 15 August 2019
The Andrews Labor Government is taking action to lift the standard of meals in Victorian public hospitals and aged care centres.
Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos visited St Vincent’s Hospital today to announce the Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to conduct a food audit of meals served in hospitals and aged care facilities.
The audit will focus on taste, nutritional value, local procurement and diverse foods for modern diets, so that patients and residents can consume the meals they know and love.
The Labor Government made an election commitment to lift the standard of meals, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.
The audit will:
- Consider the nutritional value of food and drinks served, and how public hospitals and aged care facility menus cater to the diverse needs of modern diets
- Assess the taste and variety of meals currently on offer
- Look at ways to source food from local Victorian farmers and producers
- Look to reduce high fat and high salt foods from hospitals, either at the bedside, in hospital-run cafes or vending machines
A balanced, nutritious diet is essential for patients to recover from their injury or illness and get back on their feet. Healthy eating can help prevent chronic disease such as type 2 diabetes, many cancers and even mental health conditions.
The audit will be led by Parliamentary Secretary for Health Anthony Carbines, who will work closely with health experts and hospitals.
After the audit, all public hospitals and aged care facilities will be required to follow the revised nutrition standards and guidelines.
Quote attributable to Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos
“We’re taking action to make sure patients are being served up a wider variety of yummy nutritious foods that they know and love.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan
“A healthy, balanced diet is the key to residents staying fit, healthy and happy. That’s why we’ll be serving up the very best, locally sourced food.”
Quote attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Health Anthony Carbines
“Our hospitals and aged care facilities already do a great job feeding their patients and residents – now we’re working together to lift the bar and provide even better meals than ever before.”