Lesson 3: Planning Meals for the Family

At the end of the lesson, the learners are able to;

1. Cite the guides in planning family meals;

2. Explain the food pyramid, My Plate template, and the three basic food groups as tools in meal planning;

3. Outline the meal pattern for breakfast, lunch, and supper;

4. Prepare a sample menu for one week for breakfast, lunch, and supper; and

5. Discuss the family food budget and the guides to wise buying.

The Food Budget

A food budget is the amount of money a family plans to spend on food. It is an important part of managing family expenses. The amount of money allotted for food depends on several factors:

1. Family Income – The family's total earnings affect how much is available for food. Families with higher incomes tend to spend a smaller percentage of their income on food, while those with lower incomes may spend a larger portion of their earnings on food.

2. Size and Composition of the Family – Larger families need more food, and families with adolescents or active members (like males with physically demanding jobs) may require more food than families with younger children or older adults.

3. Family Preferences – It’s important to consider what family members like and dislike when planning meals to avoid food waste. Introducing new, nutritious dishes slowly can encourage family members to try and accept them.

4. Use of Homegrown Resources – Families with gardens, poultry, or livestock can reduce their food expenses by using homegrown produce, eggs, or meat in their meals.

Guides to Wise Buying
Plan ahead, make a list, compare prices, and shop smartly to get quality goods at the best value while saving time, money, and effort.