What is it all about?

This project is testing whether prescribing fruit and vegetables as part of healthcare can improve health outcomes for pregnant women at high risk of gestational diabetes. Known as a “produce prescription” (PRx), the approach treats healthy food as a medical intervention, helping overcome barriers such as cost, access and food insecurity that make it difficult for people to eat well.

The research team is running an Australian first randomised controlled trial with pregnant women experiencing food insecurity. Participants receive regular deliveries of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts and seeds, along with simple recipes and dietitian support, alongside usual antenatal care. Health outcomes for mothers and babies are compared with those receiving standard care and grocery vouchers. A national survey is also being conducted to understand public and healthcare provider support for food as medicine programs.

The project will generate high quality evidence on whether produce prescriptions can improve diet quality, manage healthy weight gain during pregnancy and reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. Findings will inform health policy, clinical guidelines and future decisions about integrating food based interventions into healthcare. The work also highlights the potential role of Australian horticulture in supporting preventative health initiatives and increasing consumption of fresh produce.