Task Statement:
Factors to consider while planning a balanced meal.
In the planning of meals, the following factors should be considered:
- Nutritional adequacy — or the provision of palatable foods that are rich in essential nutrients. Nutrients needs of an individual are affected by age, sex, body build and activities engaged in by the individual.
- The Food Budget — The food budget is influenced by the family income, knowledge of the market shopper's shopping skills, family food likes and dislikes and their goals and values.
- Differences in food habits — This includes the dietary habits of nationality groups, regional food patterns, cultural and religious food patterns and the socio-economic background.
- The time and skill of the meal manager — The length of meal preparation, the amount of experience and the time available are to be considered.
- Suitability, availability and quality of the food to be served.
- Aesthetic and psychological aspects of food — or the proper combination of flavor, texture and shapes as well as variety in color, form and arrangement.
- Equipment available for food preparation.
Resource: http://hubpages.com/hub/FACTORS-TO-CONSIDER-IN-PLANNING-MEALS