Organizing meals in preschool educational institutions is regulated by several legal acts, with the most comprehensive being Cabinet Regulation No. 172 „Regulations on Nutrition Standards for Students of Educational Institutions, Social Care and Social Rehabilitation Institution Clients, and Healthcare Institution Patients.“ At the same time, educational institutions, while adhering to the norms contained in legal acts, can also develop their own internal regulations.
Parents should have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the weekly menu. According to Cabinet Regulation No. 172, preschool educational institutions where children stay up to 12 hours a day must provide students with three meals: breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack. While the regulations do not specify the exact times for each meal, institutions must take into account the requirement in Cabinet Regulation No. 890 to provide a three to four-hour interval between meals.
The menu should include dishes made from unprocessed food products such as meat, fish, cereals, vegetables, etc., as well as processed and semi-processed food products like bread, yogurt, etc. The meals should include carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits, proteins, and dairy products, with an emphasis on fresh and freshly prepared food.
Lunch menus can offer various combinations of dishes, such as a main course and soup or dessert, ensuring a balanced meal for the students. The regulations also set limits on salt and sugar content in meals, emphasizing the importance of a healthy diet for children’s development.
Certain products and ingredients are prohibited from being included in children’s menus, such as genetically modified products, artificial colors, flavor enhancers, and preservatives. The focus is on providing nutritious and wholesome meals to support children’s growth and well-being.
In cases where a child has specific dietary requirements due to medical conditions like celiac disease or diabetes, individual meal plans can be arranged with the guidance of a healthcare professional. Vegetarian meal options can also be provided upon request, ensuring that children receive a balanced diet tailored to their needs.
It is essential for parents to communicate with the educational institution regarding any concerns about their child’s meals, ensuring that they are receiving quality food that meets nutritional standards. The institution’s responsibility is to provide a safe and healthy environment for children, while the food provider must adhere to regulations and ensure food quality and safety.
In conclusion, the regulations governing meal planning in preschool educational institutions aim to provide children with nutritious and balanced meals to support their growth and development. By following these guidelines and working collaboratively with parents and healthcare professionals, institutions can ensure that children receive the best possible nutrition during their formative years.