Nursery World - Bean feast

Our new series on special dietary needs considers how to cater for vegetarians and vegans in an early years setting, with these helpful tips from <B> Suzannah Oliver </B>

Our new series on special dietary needs considers how to cater for vegetarians and vegans in an early years setting, with these helpful tips from Suzannah Oliver

All nurseries need to make provision for vegetarian children when they plan their menus, and this can mean a crash course in what to include or exclude for staff. Many hidden sources of animal products can easily trip you up, and it is essential to ensure healthy eating through balanced meal planning.

Balanced nutrition

All children need a balanced diet, and well-planned vegetarian menus can be sound. Meat in the diet is an easy way of obtaining iron, zinc (both commonly deficient in children) and vitamin B12 which are needed for blood and brain function, growth and bone health. Oily fish provides vitamin D, as well as essential fats and selenium. Ways to support the vegetarian or vegan include:

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