1. Convenience Foods
Foods 1 Objective 2.04: Understand How to interpret food label information and adjust recipes

2. What are Convenience Foods?
Also called processed foods
Foods that have been either completely or in part commercially prepared
Include canned, frozen, freeze-dried, cured, or dried

3. Processing and storing
Types of processing helps keep perishable foods from spoiling by destroying or slowing down the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Convenience foods can be stored at room temperature and for longer periods than fresh foods

4. Advantages of Using Convenience Foods
Saves time and energy
Foods are sold year round
Inexpensive way to add variety and creativity

5. Advantages of Using Convenience Foods (cont’d)
Shorter and easier preparation leads to families eating at home more often
Many products have suggestions for “light” preparation methods to reduce calories and fat

6. Disadvantages of Using Convenience Foods
Higher costs than homemade or semi- homemade
Some nutrients are lost in processing
Products may contain higher amounts of fat, sugar, sodium, and calories

7. Disadvantages of Using Convenience Foods (cont’d.)
Packaging may negatively impact the environment
Products may contain additives, preservatives, and colorings
Products may lack appeal of foods prepared at home

8. Preparing Convenience Foods
By following directions on convenience food labels, the inexperienced cook can quickly prepare tasty, nutritious meals with confidence.
Most of these foods do not require special skills or equipment to prepare
Directions and ingredients on convenience food labels give clues as to how foods can fit into a balanced, healthful diet or meal plan.

9. Convenience Food labels
To be successful, it is important for inexperienced cooks to understand the information and interpret directions on convenience foods.
This information includes:
Yield
Ingredients
Step-by-step directions
Equipment size and type
Temperature and time

10. Following Directions
Following the directions on convenience foods is important because they help:
Ensure successful food preparation
Avoid frustration
Avoid wasting ingredients and money
Allow cook to combine convenience foods with fresh foods for easier and quicker meal preparation