Official name

Dominica food-based dietary guidelines.

Publication year

Dominica launched its food-based dietary guidelines in 2007.

Process and stakeholders

The dietary guidelines were developed in a multidisciplinary process led by the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministries of Education and Agriculture, the Food and Nutrition Council, the National Youth Council, the FAO, the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama and the Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute. They are endorsed by the Ministry of Health.

Intended audience

The guidelines are aimed at the healthy population over 2 years of age.

Food guide

Dominica’s food guide is a food basket being carried by an imperial parrot, the national bird of Dominica. The basket is divided into seven food groups: staples, fruits, vegetables, food from animals, peas and beans, fats and oils, and sugars. On the wings of the bird people do different kinds of physical activity.

Messages

• Start the day with breakfast.
• Always try to eat a variety of foods every day. Use the basket to help you make the right choices.
• Eat more vegetables and fruits every day.
• Reduce fat and oil intake.
• Choose less sweet foods and drinks.
• Use less salt, salted foods, seasonings and salty snacks.
• Make physical activity a part of your daily life.
• Drink water several times a day.
• If you consume alcohol do so in moderation.