What is a balanced meal?
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A balanced meal contains at least a drink, vegetables and fruit, and a starchy foodstuff. Meat, fish, eggs, tofu, a dairy product or pulses provide the proteins. Fat is added when dishes are being prepared and, remember, sugary food should not be consumed at every meal.
Do illustrations of a balanced diet vary from country to country?
The food pyramid is illustrated in many different ways depending on the country.
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What influences the composition of food pyramids?
Cultural preferences and the availability of certain foodstuffs can influence the composition of a meal.
In India, cows are sacred animals so the consumption of beef is taboo.
The Quran and the Torah prohibit the consumption of pork as pigs are considered impure animals.