Food preparation and nutrition manuals in Australian residential aged care: a comparative analysis
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(Published version)
Date
2025
Authors
Mellow, M.L.
Taylor, P.J.
Luscombe Marsh, N.
Kenny, P.
Lushington, K.
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Journal article
Citation
Collegian, 2025; 32(6):427-435
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Abstract
Background: Food service in Australian residential aged care settings has faced criticism for poor food quality and service. This has been attributed to a lack of trained chefs and limited training for kitchen staff. Food and nutrition manuals may address these issues, but it is unclear which manuals are used and how well they align with Australian Government Quality Standards.
Aim: Using a quantitative, cross-sectional survey design, the aim of this study was to examine the use of food preparation and nutrition manuals in Australian residential aged care homes and their alignment with current aged care practices and with Australian Government Quality Standards.
Methods: An audit of food preparation and nutrition manuals was undertaken on behalf of the Australian Government Department of Health, as part of the National Congress on Food, Nutrition, and the Dining Experience in Aged Care (August–September 2020).
Findings: Respondents included 204 single-home proprietors and 88 multiple-home proprietors, representing approximately 43% of Australian residential aged care homes. Most relied on bespoke food preparation and nutrition manuals, with others using materials provided by dietitians or a combination of resources. While most manuals covered nutrition and hydration, they often neglected crucial aspects of food service, including the dining environment, food presentation, meal appeal, and consideration of cultural, religious, and personal preferences.
Conclusion: There is a need for the Australian Government to urgently lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive, national best practice manual that can guide all Australian residential aged care homes in the preparation and delivery of healthy, safe, and satisfying meals.
Discussion: A variety of incommensurable food and nutrition manuals are used in Australian residential aged care, which align poorly with current Aged Care practices and with Australian Government Quality Standards.
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Data source: Supplementary data, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2025.09.005
Link to a related website: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8371-273X, ORCID profile - Lushington, Kurt
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Copyright 2025 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Australian College of Nursing Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY license. (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)