Meat, fish, eggs, soya, pulses and nuts.
This food group makes up what we know as protein, which is essential for the body's growth and repair. A healthy diet should include some form of protein every day. Red meats are a rich source of iron which healthy red blood cells need, and oily fish are rich in Omega-3. Vitamins B and D are found in this food group too, as is zinc.
Protein includes meat such as pork, beef, lamb and chicken, and meat products such as bacon, sausages and burgers. Fish options include mackerel, haddock, salmon and tuna, and fish products can include fish fingers and fishcakes.
How much meat and fish should you eat?
You should choose something from this food group every day, but eat moderate amounts. Choose low fat options where possible. Some meat products such as beef burgers and sausages can be high in fat, which you can't always see. Trim visible fat off meat joints or chops where possible. For fish, you should aim to eat two portions each week, one of which should be an oily fish such as salmon or mackerel.
Protein alternatives
These include kidney beans, baked beans, lentils and soya. These foods provide protein, fibre and iron, but unlike those listed above are not a rich source of zinc and generally provide no vitamin B12 (unless fortified).
For more information on food groups please visit the websites below. Details of the groups 1 - 5, and how they fit into the 'Eatwell Plate', can be found on the NHS website 'NHS Live Well'.
For information or queries on the nutritional value of your child's school dinner please contact Shire Services via this page.