SNACK FACTS
Snacking
is an important part of childhood nutrition.
Kids have high energy needs but their stomachs are small. Because they can’t eat a lot at one sitting,
2-3 healthy snacks per day help them meet their daily calorie and nutrient
needs.
To
make the most of snacks, parents and care givers should have control over what
is offered and what is served. USDA
recommends that sweets should not be served as part of a snack more than twice
a week. To plan an appropriate snack,
think of it as a mini-meal and follow nutrition guidelines to limit foods high
in fat and sugar. A snack is meant to
satisfy hunger without interfering with the next meal, so it’s best to schedule
it at least 2 hours before mealtime.
A
reimbursable snack for the Child and Adult Care Food Program consists of any
two components selected from the four snack meal components: milk; fruits and
vegetables; grains and breads; and meat and meat alternates. Refer to the meal pattern chart for serving
size information.
Many
food options are available within the snack components. Grains and breads can be more than crackers
and cookies - try rice cakes, tortillas, pitas, pasta, rice and cereal. Fruits and vegetables include more than
apples and orange juice - try melons, potatoes and tomatoes. Meats and meat alternates are not just cheese
and peanut better - include yogurt, beans and eggs.
Stuck
in a snacking rut? Try introducing new
foods, planning snacks around a theme, or involving the children in food
preparation. By offering healthy food
choices now, you are promoting a lifetime of good eating habits!
CHILD & ADULT CARE FOOD
PROGRAM
A
great snack or breakfast idea! Blueberry waffle, orange slice, kiwi,
strawberries and blueberries will tempt any child (and maybe you) to eating a
nutritious fun packed meal.
“This institution is an equal opportunity
provider”
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