Hellobee Boards

I think the government (in the US anyway) has a skewed perception of nutrition and I believe that it's a money gimmick, not that they have our best interests at heart. So that being said, I wholeheartedly do not agree with the food pyramid as a guideline - is that what the government subsidy program follows? I would be upset by that too. I don't think our daycare does that though? At least not that I'm aware.

Yes, my home daycare does it and I don't like it. It is clear as day that it is a result of lobbying because some of the subsidy preferred foods are just clearly unhealthy- what nutritional need are Saltines meeting, I ask?
But, my provider goes with whatever I say, no questions, so I don't mind it too much.

@Corduroy: It sounds like your provider is interested in serving the best possible, even with the new guideline. Hopefully she will make it the best of both worlds- save money for her and still good for your LO.
I love my provider for a million other reasons, but she thinks cream of whatever soup is a healthy addition to any meal. *sigh*

I worked for years in programs that adhere to these guidelines, and just want to reassure you that the provider can be very flexible while still following enough of the guidelines to be reimbursed. One program had a huge garden and made meals daily with the produce, as well as as a CSA share from a local farm! While suggested/preferred foods are a part of the regs, it is much more about what category of food is being offered than the exact meal. You may find more foods being offered at meals (which is another issue entirely) but if your provider is currently using lots of healthy, fresh foods, that shouldn't have to change to meet the guidelines for reimbursement.

That being said...most programs who provide reimbursable meals don't do it very well.