basismaten

Basismaten is a term used in nutrition planning in several Nordic contexts to describe a set of fundamental meals that form the foundation of a balanced diet. The concept is employed in dietary guidelines, school meal programs, and emergency food provisions to provide a simple, affordable, and culturally adaptable standard for daily eating. The exact definition and components can vary by country or program.

The purpose of basismaten is to ensure sufficient intake of energy and nutrients while supporting easy planning, reducing food waste, and accommodating diverse households and tastes. It aims to promote variety, emphasize whole foods, and be adaptable to different ages, activity levels, and dietary restrictions.

A typical basismaten pattern includes elements from all major food groups. This often means carbohydrate-rich staples (such as whole grains, potatoes, or legumes), a generous portion of vegetables and/or fruit, a protein source (meat, fish, eggs, dairy, or plant-based proteins), and healthy fats. Dairy or fortified alternatives may be included to support calcium intake, with water or other low-sugar beverages as the main fluids. The approach also emphasizes seasonality, affordability, and cultural suitability.

Flexibility is a hallmark of basismaten. It can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, or other dietary needs, and can be scaled for children, adults, or older adults. In disaster relief or school settings, basismaten is often designed to be easy to prepare, transport, and store.

See also: balanced diet, dietary guidelines, meal planning, food groups.