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Foods I Obj. 6.02. Meal Patterns. What is a Meal Pattern?. It is a listing of basic foods normally served in a meal. A meal pattern should include all the nutrients needed in a day based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the MyPyramid.
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Foods I Obj. 6.02 Meal Patterns
What is a Meal Pattern? • It is a listing of basic foods normally served in a meal. A meal pattern should include all the nutrients needed in a day based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the MyPyramid. • It includes: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
Breakfast • Includes ¼ of the daily nutritional needs • It is considered the most important meal of the day • It should include: • Foods rich in complex carbohydrates (whole wheat/fiber) • Some fruit • Dairy product • Protein product
Lunch • Includes about 1/3 of the daily nutritional needs • Should include: • Vegetables such as a salad or one dish meals • Protein food • Usually lighter than dinner
Dinner • Includes about 1/3 of the daily nutritional needs • Should include a variety of foods from each food group, within the serving size parameters
Snacks • Supply the remaining nutritional needs • Should be nutrient-dense • Should have less calories than a meal • Should be low in fat and sugar
Strategies for Menu Planning • Meal planning factors to consider when planning meals: • Age and health concerns • Number being served • Budgeted dollar amount for food • Time and energy available • Preparation skills • Equipment available • Food availability • Food for leftovers for additional meals
What is a Menu? • It is a useful tool in helping the meal manager reach the goal of providing good nutrition. • It lists the foods to be served in a meal • Should be put together with a budget and time available in mind • There is a formal menu and an informal menu
Time-saving Strategies in Menu Planning • Meals or recipes with smaller pieces that cook in less time • One-dish meals (casseroles) • Slow-cooker recipes • Quick-cook recipes • Microwave recipes • All family member share the responsibilities • Cook ahead and freeze meals • Use leftovers in other meals
Weekly Planning of Meals • It is very advantageous to plan meals for the whole week because: • Saves time in planning and shopping • Assures all nutritional needs are met • Preparation methods can be anticipated • Creativity and variety can be included in meals • Leftovers can be incorporated
Questions • How are meal patterns used in menu planning? • What factors should be considered when planning meals? • How does “variety” influence meal planning? • How does planning in advance affect menu planning?