The Perfect Scouting for Food Bag

Question: With so many canned food options on the store shelves, how do I know what items are best to donate to food drives such as Scouting for Food?

Answer: After consulting with numerous food pantry directors in the area and seeking nutrition advice from a dietition, we compiled what we like to call the Perfect Bag. The Perfect Bag contains a variety of nutrient-rich foods from all five food groups.

• 2 cans of hearty soup, stew or chili: Supplies many nutrients.
• 2 cans of tuna, chicken, salmon or luncheon meat (e.g., Spam): Contains protein and iron. Canned salmon is a source of calcium and omega-3 fatty acids.
• 1 can of fruit: Supplies vitamins A and C, folate, potassium, fiber and other healthy substances.
• 1 can of vegetables: Supplies beta carotene, vitamin C, folate, complex carbohydrates, fiber and potassium.
• 1 can of tomato or pasta sauce: contains lycopene, a healthy substance that is more available to your body in canned and cooked tomatoes than in fresh.
• 1 canned meal: Offers a variety of ingredients and nutrients.
• 1 can of beans: Contains plenty of protein, complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• 1 can of evaporated milk: Makes an excellent source of calcium and protein.