RD - Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Practice Test

Which cycle menu length is most appropriate for a long-term-care facility?

1. 2-week cycle menu

2. 1-week cycle menu

3. 4-week cycle menu

4. Restaurant style static menu

The correct answer is: 4-week cycle menu

A cycle menu is a planned sequence of meals that are repeated at regular intervals, and the selection of an appropriate cycle length for a long-term care facility is crucial for several reasons. The 4-week cycle menu is most suitable for long-term care facilities because it allows for variety while maintaining a manageable structure. This length enables the dietary staff to offer a diverse range of meals that can cater to the nutritional needs and preferences of residents. With 4 weeks, there is enough time to introduce different foods and cooking styles, preventing menu fatigue among residents who may be at the facility for an extended period. Additionally, a 4-week cycle makes it easier to accommodate dietary restrictions and seasonal ingredients, allowing for nutritional variations that can support the health of residents. It helps in planning shopping lists, reducing waste, and streamlining food preparation, which enhances overall efficiency in food service operations. Shorter cycle menus, like a 1-week or 2-week menu, tend to limit variety and make it challenging to manage a diverse dietary regimen that meets the varying needs of individuals in long-term care. A static restaurant-style menu could also lack the necessary flexibility in terms of variety and tailored nutrition that a longer cycle menu can provide. Therefore, the 4-week cycle