N.M. Admin. Code § 8.370.20.73

Current through Register Vol. 36, No. 1, January 14, 2025

Section 8.370.20.73 - MEAL TIMES AND NUTRITION

A. Staff/participant ratios must be maintained at meal times.

B. Time allowed for meals shall enable the participants to eat at a leisurely rate.

C. Meals may be served in areas of main activity.

D. Dining areas shall be equipped with tables, chairs, eating utensils and dishes.

E. Nutrition:

(1) A meal shall be provided to each participant in attendance at the program during standard mealtimes. Each meal shall provide at lease one-third of an adult's daily nutritional requirement.

(2) A nutritious mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack shall be offered daily to participants. Snacks shall be planned to keep sugar, salt and cholesterol intake to a minimum.

(3) Participants shall not go for more than three hours without being offered a meal or a snack.

(4) A therapeutic diet shall be provided, if prescribed in writing by a physician, for any participant. If therapeutic diets are prepared by program staff, such staff shall have training in planning and preparing therapeutic diets or shall provide documentation of previous training and education sufficient to assure ability to prepare meals in accordance with a physician's prescription.

(5) A registered dietitian/nutritionist must be consulted by the staff on basic and special nutritional needs and proper food handling techniques. Instruction in nutrition, weight control and safe food handling techniques may be provided as an ongoing part of program activities.

N.M. Admin. Code § 8.370.20.73

Adopted by New Mexico Register, Volume XXXV, Issue 12, June 25, 2024, eff. 7/1/2024