S.T.R.E.T.C.H.
(Safety, Training, Resources, and Education to Combat Hunger)
Food Safety Information Sheet No. 15
Food Banks
Follow the Pyramid!
Adequate food and a healthful diet are important to people of all ages. A good diet
can help people feel well and function at their peak in the short term, and can
reduce the risk for chronic diseases, such as heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes,
stroke, and osteoporosis. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, published by the
U.S. Department of Agriculture, provide advice for food choices that promote health
and prevent disease. They are designed for healthy Americans over 2 years old. To
meet the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most calories in a diet should come from
grain products, vegetables, fruits, lowfat milk products, lean meats, fish, poultry,
and dry beans. Fewer calories should come from fats and sweets. Whenever possible,
use the Food Guide Pyramid as a guide when obtaining foods for your facility.
Select and Identify!
Individuals shoppers from member agencies vary widely in their knowledge of nutrition.
Help member agencies select food consistent with the Food Guide Pyramid and the
Dietary Guidelines for Americans by:
- Displaying the Food Guide Pyramid
- Providing inventory lists categorized by food group
- Suggesting uses for unfamiliar foods
Ecourage!
Sometimes food banks receive new or unusual foods. Member agencies may be unwilling
to accept these products if they don't know how to use them. Help member agencies
utilize new and unusual foods by:
- Providing sample recipes
- Offering tastes or samples