meal planning

Factors to consider when planning meals

• Food Value (meals must be balance)

Planning process should ensure that a day's meal provide all the nutrients a person needs. One way of achieving this is to select food from the six food groups of the Caribbean.

• the need of the family( or person eating the meal)

The type of food and method of preparation depend on the need of the individual. Children and Adolescence require energy rich food as people become older, require less energy giving food. Some people may need special diets because of illness or other medical conditions. For example, people suffering from diabetes needs a sugar-free diet. This must be taken into consideration when planning meals.

• type of occasion

The occasion will determine how elaborate or how simple the meal should be.

• the appearance of the meal

We first eat with our eyes. Meals should look attractive. They should also include a variety of features and flavors.

• food availability

Prepare food in season. They are cheaper and, of better quality.

• likes and dislikes of person planning for

Persons have different likes and dislikes. Plan as best as possible to satisfy everyone.

• money available (income)

when money is limited, it is important to know the cheapest alternative and still nutritious meal.

• equipment and facility

This will influence the types of dishes you prepare, example if an oven is not available then baked chicken or muffins cannot be a part of the meal.