İstanbul’da Bulunan Anaokulu Menülerinin Beslenme Önerilerine Uygunluğu ve Yemek Çeşitliliği

Abstract

This descriptive research was carried out in randomly selected 210 kindergartens in 7 districts sides of Istanbul. The study aimed to examine the characteristics of preschool menus and compare them to the nutritional requirements of children. Meals served in breakfast, lunch, and snacks were determined in portions and nutritional and energy content is calculated. The nutrient content of the menus was compared to Dietary Guidelines for Turkey to meet the daily requirements. 21.4% of the kindergartens that provided food reported that dietitians planned the menu. The mean percentages of meeting the daily energy recommendations for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon meals were 26.18%, 29.54%, and 6.48% respectively. Of those kindergarten menus were most convenient for consumption (94.3%); they provided a variety in terms of consistency (85.2%) and pattern variety (68.1%). The dietary fiber content of the menus was insufficient compared to the daily recommendations. The menus offer sweetened fruit juices, and salads were less served than recommendations. Kindergarten menus should contain more whole grains and vegetables to provide requirements for dietary fiber.