
There are many options for Australians to choose healthy foods. The Australian Dietary Guidelines offer realistic and practical recommendations for healthy eating. The best scientific evidence is used to inform the recommendations.
The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating outlines the five food groups and the recommended daily intake. These are:
- There are many vegetables to choose from, including various types and colors and legumes/beans.
- fruit
- Cereal grains, mostly whole grain or high in cereal fibre, include bread, cereals and pasta.
- Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs and tofu. Nuts, seeds and legumes/beans.
- Milk yoghurt, cheese, and their alternative
These are healthy eating habits.
- Being physically active and eating healthy food and beverages to fuel your energy levels are key factors.
- Enjoy a variety of healthy foods.
- Drink plenty of water
- Limiting saturated fat intake, added salt, and added sugars in foods such as cookies, cakes, pastries and pies, processed meats like burgers, pizzas, fried foods and potato chips.
- Limit your alcohol intake
- Take care of your food – prepare and store it safely.
Food safety and Coronavirus
COVID-19, a respiratory disease spread from person to person, is called. It is not a foodborne illness. There is no evidence that people can get the virus from eating or drinking food. However, it is a good idea to practice safe handling and preparation. How to prepare and store your food
- maintain good hygiene practices
- Before you eat, wash your fresh fruits and vegetables in running water.
- If you are suffering from symptoms of a respiratory illness, it is best not to prepare food for others.
All social distancing requirements set out by the Australian, or New Zealand governments must be adhered to by businesses.
It is important to be aware that false and misleading claims regarding specific food products are made during COVID-19. You can contact your local food enforcement agency if you have concerns about claims made about food products, even those that claim to prevent or cure COVID-19.
Grocery shopping
You can still shop for food unless you have to be isolated. You should ensure that you follow physical distancing guidelines.
You can also do these things to ensure your safety while shopping:
- You can save time and avoid returning to the shop again for forgotten items by making a list.
- Choose a time when there are fewer people.
- Before entering the supermarket, wipe down your shopping basket or shopping cart with hand sanitizer or disinfectant. Many supermarkets offer these products to customers.
- Use cards instead of cash
- After leaving the store, wash your hands with soap and water.
You can make your food last longer so that you have to go to the grocery store less often.
- Food items should be stored in a freezer or refrigerator to preserve their nutritional value. Tinned and frozen vegetables and fruits are best when they are at their peak and can provide a great source of vitamins and minerals. Instead of syrup, look for tinned fruits in natural juice.
- Use cuts of meat or beans and legumes suitable for stews, curries and other dishes. You can freeze leftovers so that you can make more than one meal.
Online shopping is an easy way to stock your pantry and fridge without ever leaving your home. This service may be available in your local supermarket.
Seniors who need assistance shopping for groceries and cooking meals can get it.
Plan your meals
Plan to save time and avoid shopping trips. A meal planner can plan a week’s worth of meals and make a shopping list.
Freeze extra portions of soups, curries, and stews to make later. You can have extra meals for those days when you don’t feel like cooking, or you’re not feeling well.
A meal delivery service like Hello Fresh, Dinnerly or Marley Spoon could be a good option. To find out what is available in your area and which options are best for you, check out the following.
Include the whole family
It is a great time to include everyone in your family in the nutrition of your meals.
Get your children involved in:
- Plan meals
- Making shopping lists
- Preparing meals
- Cleaning up
Elderly household members can help prepare meals.
You can either choose your favorite recipes or go bold and try new cuisines.
Motivation and support
It can be difficult to keep your motivation to eat well in difficult situations.
You can learn more about nutrition to help you stay on the right track. Learn more about healthy eating at:
- Eat for Health
- The Healthy Weight Guide
Similar information
It is important to take care of your mental and physical health in difficult times. Our advice is available at:
- Take care of your mental health
- Ensure you are getting enough exercise during COVID-19 restrictions
Keep informed
Stay up-to-date on COVID-19
- Monitor the COVID-19 case numbers and current situation
- Check out our COVID-19 news media and media