In order to streamline the menu approval process, DFTA’s nutritionists have developed 180 pre-approved lunch menus. Menus reflect the diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds of our seniors and so far include Latino, Korean, Kosher and vegetarian menus, as well as regular menus, summer (cold) menus and holiday menus. Should you choose to use these menus, you will no longer have to submit your menus to DFTA for approval. To choose this alternative you must send us a memorandum stating that your program has opted to use pre-approved menus.
Each of the 180 menus consists of an appetizer, main dish, vegetables and fruits, bread, margarine or butter, dessert and milk. In addition, soup may be added as an optional food item. If you choose to use these menus, you must choose an entire day’s menu – items from one day are not interchangeable with items from another day. You may also use these menus when you must make a substitution due to a last minute shortage or the non-delivery of a needed food item.
DFTA is offering these pre-approved menus as an alternative – programs may still create their own menus. If you elect to continue preparing your own menus, we still require quarterly submission of menus for approval. Menus must comply with the established regulations for one third RDA and support healthy aging.
In addition, all menus, whether pre-approved or created, should be posted in the center and maintained on site for review by DFTA during the Annual Nutrition Assessment. Any changes made should be reflected on all menus.
Let us know what you think of our new menus and share your special recipes or menus with us. Please fax them to (212) 442-1206 or mail them to your Nutritionist.
DFTA Staff Directories
