SIR, – I am pleased to report to readers of The Weekly Advertiser that the Andrews Government is taking action to lift the standard of meals in Victorian public hospitals and aged-care centres, with a food audit now underway. 

Members of the public have a chance to provide views, experiences and ideas on ways food can be healthier, tastier and more diverse for patients and aged-care residents. 

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.

It will also assess the taste and variety of meals on offer and look at ways to source food from Victorian farmers and producers.

We know that a balanced, nutritious diet is essential for patients to recover from their injury or illness.

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. 

I encourage Wimmera residents to contribute to the survey by Monday, November 25, by visiting engage.vic.gov.au/food-public-hospitals-and-aged-care.

Jaala Pulford

Labor Member for Western Victoria

The entire October 30, 2019 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire October 30, 2019 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!