The Good Food Compendium

Book excerpt: Abstract: A comprehensive guide to gourmet cooking and good nutrition stresses the use of fresh produce and nutrient-preserving cooking methods to maintain a balanced diet. Consumers will find comparative information on buying, storing, picking, and preparing vegetables and fruits from the store, the farm, the can or the freezer. A discussion of protein requirements covers kind, amount, quality, cost, and vegetarian alternatives. Moderation (rather than abstention) is recommended in the consumption of all foods, including sugar and salt. Special nutritional requirements of pregnant and lactating women, infants, children, and the elderly are discussed. Information about specific foods is provided in tables of nutrient contents, nutrient retention during cooking, and human nutrient requirements. A few recipes are included in each chapter. (cj).