NEST

Two OzHarvest female volunteers cooking during an ozharvest education class

How NEST works

OzHarvest’s NEST program is an easy and fun way to learn healthy eating habits and how to cook simple and low-cost meals in just six weeks. Each NEST session is held at the same day and time each week for 2.5 hours. It includes fun interactive activities, practical cooking classes, and the sharing of a meal together. OzHarvest NEST is aligned with the Australian Dietary Guidelines and works with everyone to set realistic goals around healthy eating, which are reviewed and revised each week, so real and lasting change can be made.

The NEST team provides all the food, equipment and educational materials required to deliver the program. At the final workshop, everyone receives a certificate and a take home toolkit, with infographic fact sheets and the OzHarvest Everyday Cookbook – packed full of easy, budget-friendly, delicious and nutritious photo-based recipes (all of which cost less than $3.00 per serve).

The impact of NEST

The NEST program has been formally evaluated as a sound evidence-based public health nutrition program that can help to promote cooking confidence, healthy eating, and food security. For more information, check out our recent NEST article published in Nutrients MDPI, an international peer-reviewed academic journal.

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COVID-19 Update

NEST workshops are up and running in NSW and ACT, but face-to-face classes are still on hold in Victoria for now. During COVID-19, we have created a Facebook group. This is a private group open to people who have participated in the program, as well as anyone interested in the OzHarvest NEST program featuring NEST resources, delicious recipes and tips on healthy eating and cooking on a low budget. You can also interact with others, share photos and ask questions to our team of qualified nutritionists and dietitians.

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NEST Impact

67%

Increased intake of healthy food and drinks

95%

Were more confident to make healthy food choices on a budget

90%

Would recommend NEST to their friends and family

For individuals: Join a NEST Program

Some six week NEST programs are open to the general public. The workshops are delivered through interactive activities, followed by cooking and sharing a meal together. If you would like to join one of these programs, please select a location to register: