We investigated foodservices and levels of their satisfaction from parents of children in kindergartens with and without dietitians. Foodservice facilities consisted of kitchens and cafeterias for all kindergartens with a dietitian (KWD) and only kitchens for all kindergartens without a dietitian (KWOD) (p<0.001). Children consumed lunch in a lunchroom for all KWD and in a classroom for all KWOD (p<0.001). The person in charge of the diet menu was a dietitian for all KWD and a director for 52.2% of KWOD (p<0.001). About 48% of total kindergartens were served different amounts according to the child's age and body size. About 30% of parents from total kindergartens responded that a difficulty of foodservice management was children's safety while distributing the lunch. The majority of respondents claimed that foodservices need a more balanced menu and active instructions on proper dietary habits. Parents who visited and participated in foodservice were significantly higher from KWD than KWOD. Also, the desire to participate in foodservices was significantly higher in the parents from KWD (p<0.01). Sixty one percent of parents from KWD and 19% of parents from KWOD considered foodservices when choosing a kindergarten (p<0.001). The satisfaction in foodservices of parents from KWD was significantly higher from all points of view in terms of the quality of foodservice, nutrition, and hygiene. In conclusion, we found that foodservices and their levels of satisfaction from parents of kindergartens with dietitians were better and higher than those without dietitians. Therefore, all kindergartens should consider having a dietitian exclusively in charge of foodservices.

Keywords: foodservice, satisfaction, dietitian, kindergarten, parents