The Andrews Labor Government is taking action to lift the standard of meals in Victorian public hospitals and aged care centres, with a food audit now underway.

The public now has a chance to provide their views and ideas on ways food can be healthier, tastier and more diverse for patients and aged care residents.

This week is National Nutrition Week, and people will be able to contribute to the Engage Victoria community survey to outline what matters to them when it comes to hospital and aged care food.

The Labor Government made an election commitment to lift the standard of meals, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

The food 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 diseases such as type 2 diabetes, many cancers and even mental health conditions.

After the audit, all public hospitals and aged care facilities will be required to follow the revised nutrition standards and guidelines.

The audit is being led by Parliamentary Secretary for Health Anthony Carbines. To contribute visit engage.vic.gov.au/food-public-hospitals-and-aged-care by November 25.