According to all I’ve found out from as many sources as possible, here’s the basic makeup of the meals we’ll serve.
Protein is to be at least 3 oz (we’ll do 4 oz whenever possible).
We have to provide about 3/4 cup starch (typically potato, pasta, or rice). The bread/biscuit counts for about 1/4 cup.
The seniors get 1/2 cup each of a vegetable, and a fruit/dessert.
Generally we also will provide about 1/2 cup of salad.
When it comes to condiments, typically we’ll provide 1/2 tbsp margarine (Promise), and 1 oz of salad dressing if required.
Seniors also get their choice of 1/2 pt 2% milk or juice.
I don’t worry too much about calories, as senior citizens often make these meals last for a couple of meals.
Our biggest challenge is to prepare a meal that looks good (has awesome eye appeal), and that stands up to being transported by the Meals On Wheels truck. For us, that means it can be as long as two hours after cooking/plating until the meal is delivered.
