A healthy, appropriate and caring diet

Have at least three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and supper) and small snacks interspersed between meals (Ministry of Health, 2005).

A healthy, appropriate and caring diet has the following attributes:

::Contains a variety of foods from each food group.
::The foods are in the correct amounts to maintain health and a healthy weight.
::Does not contain chemical, biological and physical contaminants.
::Contains preparations that are appropriate for the consumer’s phase of life.
::Respects the local food habits.
::Contains foods that promote regional products and the local economy.
::Is tasty, well-presented and colorful.
::Is affordable.