Special diets

Q. Caterers have to respond to changing customer needs. Discuss how a caterer can meet the needs of customers with special dietary needs. Detailed answer that gives specific examples relating to dietary requirements. Vegetarians & Vegans Food allergies e.g. Nut, seafood, Lactose, Wheat. Diabetes Pregnant women The elderly Children

Q. Planning meals for older people in a residential home is important. Discuss the points that should be considered when planning meals for elderly people. Nutritional needs; protein for repair of body cells, reduced fat and sugar where elder people less active good supply of iron rich foods to carry oxygen around the body to where it is needed (maintain red blood cells), vitamin C to protect against infection, Calcium and vitamin D for bones and teeth (osteoporosis), fibre to keep the digestive system healthy (regular)

Other factors to consider: Old people often lose their ‘taste’ sp may need extra seasoning. Try to avoid too much salt. Old people may have false teeth, so cannot chew tough foods. Old people may have arthritis so cannot cup up or handle foods easily. Old people lose their appetite – so need tempting with small colourful portions of food. Avoid snacking between meals. Old people are considered ‘high risk’ so should not be given raw or lightly cooked eggs and avoid re-heating foods. Like traditional foods.