The food that we consume is well assimilated in our body and is used for the growth and maintenance of body tissues. Life cannot exist without food, and it is for this reason that every living organism strives to obtain its food requirements. It has been seen that the satisfaction of hunger is usually the main factor for a satisfactory food intake. It is very important that for sustaining a healthy and normal life, diets should be planned with the scientific knowledge of nutrition. It is very essential to learn the general principles and considerations that govern the planning of balanced diets.
Meal planning is regarded both as a science as well as an art. It is regarded as an art because it involves the skillful blending of colour, texture and flavor and it is considered to be a science because it involves a careful selection of food for optimum nutrition and digestion. A well planned meal is always appealing to the eyes. Therefore, it is very important that we should obtain adequate nutrition by including the foods from all the food groups in sufficient quantity as well as proportion. Meal planning means planning for adequate nutrition. Meal planning is an art which develops through inspiration and thought. It may appear to be difficult at first but it is a skill which grows with patience and practice. The wisely planned meal not only has to be palatable but also it should be nutritious. Appetite depends not only on hunger but also on the taste, texture, appearance and attractiveness of the foods. Meal planning includes food purchasing and meal preparation.
Importance of Meal Planning
1. Planning of meals in a family is very important in order to fulfill the nutritional requirements of the family members. This is very important to keep them strong and healthy and also free from any nutritional deficiency disease symptoms of any kind.
2. The food or the meal that is planned has to be palatable and appealing to the eye as well as nutritious.