Understanding cultural food security
As dietitians , we have a responsibility to expand our knowledge to ensure we meet the dietary needs of older Australians from diverse cultural backgrounds . Food security is not simply access to safe food , it ’ s access to food you will eat . Which is why it ’ s critical that all Australians – especially those with higher nutrient needs – have access to healthy , culturally appropriate food .
The recent Royal Commission into Quality and Safety in Aged Care Report conceded this is not always the case . The report highlighted inadequacies within the aged care sector in spending on fresh food , lack of training in culturally safe practice and knowledge of specific needs of people from diverse backgrounds .
In 2021 , not-for-profit organisation IndianCare conducted qualitative interviews with Australian-Indian seniors and the elderly based in Melbourne . The majority stated that a total absence of Indian food would deter them from seeking aged care facilities if they were unable to look after themselves . While some have adapted to a wider Australian cuisine , they would still want their weekly intake to incorporate traditional Indian food . Even those following a vegetarian diet would not consider moving into an aged care facility because currently , none offer Indian vegetarian meals .
In many aged care facilities in Australia , food is mainly Anglo-specific , which means the texture , flavour and content are appropriate to the general needs of Caucasian residents . In some cases , ‘ token ’ culturally appropriate foods are offered to residents – perhaps one or two dishes a week that are prepared with Indian spices or Asian flavours .
Food ultimately connects people with their identity , homelands , family & traditions .
© Dietitian Connection 14 Infuse | October 2023