Evaluation of Preschool Menus in Uskudar

Abstract

Purpose:This study was carried out in order to evaluate the menus of formal preschools in Uskudar District of Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education. Patients and Methods:The study included five formal preschools in Uskudar, but four schools were included in the study because a school\'s menu was not published on the website. In the evaluation of one month (20 days) menus in preschool; energy, macro nutrient requirements of children and nutrient group contents of menus were calculated. The contents of energy and macro nutrients were calculated with the Nutrition Information System (BEBIS) software. Results:The fat ratios and saturated fat content of the preschool menus in the study were found in all schools (42%,40%,41%,37% and 17.9%, 13.6%, 13.4%, 14.3% respectively), and the ratio of energy from sucrose was above the reference range in three schools (7%,17%,14%). In addition, when the contents of the menu were evaluated according to the food groups, the cereal group was adequate and high; however, milk group, meat group, fruit and vegetable group were found to be insufficient. Conclusion:To achieve appropriate eating habits in preschool children is very important for the sustainability of growth and development.Therefore, the menus served to children in preschool, where they spend a significant part of their days, should be prepared in accordance with adequate and balanced nutrition principles.As a result of the study, it was determined that the menus of preschools were not suitable for children requirements. It is recommended that the menus should be prepared under the control of dietitians and trained authorized persons in the preparation of menus in the preschool are required.