Why is meal presentation important?
We all eat with our eyes and therefore, how a meal looks is very important. When people look at food there are visual characteristics making the meal appealing and want to be eaten. These food characteristics are also perceived differently between people, and that is why we are attracted to different foods and meals.
Meal presentation is specifically important in the age care sector as we want our elderly people to eat and therefore, any way to increase food intake should be used as a strategy. We also want to make mealtimes pleasant. Meal presentation is the process of serving food onto plates, serving platters and into bowls. It is designed to not only showcase the meal being cooked but also to enhance the appearance, to ensure that the meal looks like the recipe and to be attractive to those eating the meal.
The art of meal presentation
There is an art to meal presentation- it requires care to ensure that the meal when presented on a plate looks tidy. One of the meal presentation techniques is to use colour. Colour immediately can bring a plate alive. When planning the menu, make sure that the colour combination is attractive and not dull. This can be avoided by ensuring that the meal components colour contrast. The colour of the food on the plate is essential for an attractive meal and learning how to increase meal presentation can help with food intake.
Arrangement and garnishing
Matching and contrasting textures
Texture contrast is also crucial in meal presentation. Combining different textures, such as crispy vegetables with a creamy sauce or a crunchy topping on a soft dessert, can make the meal more interesting and enjoyable to eat. This variety in texture can stimulate the appetite and improve the meal for elderly people.
Choose the correct kitchenware
The use of appropriate serving ware also enhances meal presentation. Choosing the right plates, bowls, and cutlery that complement the food can elevate the overall dining experience. For instance, using smaller plates can make portions appear more substantial, which can be encouraging for those with reduced appetites.
Finally, considering the dietary needs and preferences of the elderly is essential in meal presentation. Ensuring that meals are not only visually appealing but also nutritious and easy to eat is crucial. Soft foods, finger foods, and easily digestible items should be incorporated into the menu to cater to those with specific dietary requirements.
At Procurement Australia, our dedicated team is committed to delivering the highest quality food services at market-beating prices. We work with some of the biggest names in the industry.
