Nutrition at ICANDY – Healthy from Ingredients to Cooking Methods
At ICANDY, every meal is developed based on the principles of complete – balanced – wholesome nutrition. The menu is thoughtfully designed to harmonize energy-providing nutrients (protein, fats, and carbohydrates) with a wide variety of food sources from both animals and plants.
Children receive all the essential nutrients such as protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This helps to:
• Stimulate natural appetite and support healthy eating habits
• Improve digestion
• Build a strong foundation for physical growth, brain development, and the nervous system during the early years
Why does ICANDY limit pork in the daily menu?
ICANDY does not assume that pork is “bad.” Instead, the school prioritizes protein sources that are more suitable for young children’s digestive systems—such as chicken, fish, shrimp, eggs, beans, seeds, and vegetables.
Pork often contains a higher level of saturated fat compared to other protein sources. For young children, too much saturated fat can cause heaviness, indigestion, or place unnecessary strain on their still-developing digestive system.
Therefore, ICANDY chooses alternative protein options like chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and seeds to ensure children receive adequate protein while still digesting food easily.
However, if a child needs to consume pork due to a doctor’s recommendation or family preference, the school is happy to prepare a separate pork-based meal to ensure each child’s nutritional needs are met individually.
Cooking Principles: Saying “NO” to Additives and Processed Foods
Beyond careful ingredient selection, ICANDY pays special attention to safe cooking methods that preserve natural sweetness and nutritional value.
1. No MSG, seasoning powder, or artificial flavor enhancers
ICANDY completely excludes industrial seasoning products such as MSG, seasoning powder, and flavor enhancers.
All dishes take their natural sweetness from:
• Slow-simmered bones
• Fresh vegetables prepared daily
Seasonings are used minimally and responsibly:
• Fish sauce, salt, and raw cane sugar are used to enhance flavor while keeping meals safe and suitable for young children.
2. No processed or pre-packed foods
ICANDY firmly says no to processed items such as sausages, cured meats, premade meatballs or fish balls, and all frozen or packaged foods.
Instead, the kitchen uses only fresh ingredients prepared onsite daily, ensuring hygiene, safety, and optimal nutrient retention.
Because of this, ICANDY does not apply a one-size-fits-all nutrition formula. The school follows scientific guidelines and adjusts flexibly so that every child receives the care that best fits their body’s needs and individual nutritional requirements.
