Nutrition in preschool institutions in Split

In this study we examine the energy and nutritional values of daily meals in Split preschool institutions from 1991 to 1998. The aim is to determine the quality of nutrition in relation to the standards used in order to improve it. Oscillations in the range of values of the parameters examined were registered within and between single organizational units. Analyses of meals are rare where all the examined parameters corresponded to the recommended standards. Protein and fat values were most frequently increased, while carbohydrates and energy value were found to be decreased. Regulations should be set at a state-wide level for the methodology of taking sample of daily meals in preschool institutions as well as the analysis of the results obtained. Official recommendations for nutritional standards in preschool institutions would enable the compilation of better menus. Continous follow-up of nutritional quality is necessary. Nutrition quality control should be indispensably integrated with data from organized and continuous follow-up of the children,s nutritional status (according to WHO NCHS standards). In that way proposals for the improvement of nutrition would be appropriate for and coordinated with the situation in the field.