Substitution with Local Foods Can Still Meet Balanced Nutrition

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Dietitian from Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung, Yesi Herawati S.Gz, stated that local foods found in the areas around one’s residence can serve as equivalent substitutes to meet balanced nutrition at affordable prices.

“Local foods such as eggs, tempeh, fish, green vegetables, and fruits are easy to find and affordable. Nutritious food does not need to be expensive; what is important is balanced nutrition so that children’s nutritional needs are fulfilled,” Yesi told ANTARA on Wednesday.

Yesi explained that according to the “Isi Piringku” concept, the reference for children’s nutrition fulfilment is half a plate of vegetables and fruits, a quarter plate of staple foods which can consist of rice or potatoes, and a quarter plate for side dishes as protein sources such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, and tempeh.

If in the child’s residential area the food sources are not complete, Yesi suggested making smart substitutions by finding equivalents with the same nutritional value.

“For example, if it is difficult to obtain beef or chicken, it can be replaced with eggs, tofu, or tempeh which are easy to find and more affordable. If rice is hard to find, it can be replaced with potatoes, sweet potatoes, cassava, or corn. If certain fruits are hard to find or expensive, they can be replaced with local fruits,” she said.

“It does not have to be complete in every meal; what is important is that it is fulfilled in a day,” Yesi concluded.