What is a balanced meal?

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.

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.