Illinois Nursing Home Administrators (NHA) Practice Exam

For a meal to be considered substantial, it must include all of the following except which one?

1. meat, fish, or poultry

2. good quality protein

3. butter or margarine

4. a dessert

The correct answer is: butter or margarine

A substantial meal typically requires essential components that contribute to its nutritional value and overall completeness. Meat, fish, or poultry are often included because they provide significant protein and are staple sources of nutrition in many diets. Good quality protein is also fundamental, as it ensures the meal meets dietary needs for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily function. Butter or margarine, while often used in cooking or as a condiment, does not necessarily contribute to the meal's substance in the way that protein sources do. These fats may enhance flavor or texture but do not constitute a primary food group required for a meal to be labeled as substantial. On the other hand, a dessert can be considered part of a complete meal, as it adds variety, may provide additional calories, and is often culturally significant. Thus, a meal can still be considered substantial without the inclusion of butter or margarine, as they are not essential to the core nutritional elements.