How can you increase a child's iron and protein intake?

Including snacks from the meat group is an effective way to increase a child's iron and protein intake because meat is a rich source of these essential nutrients. Meat, particularly red meat, poultry, and fish, contains heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron found in plant sources. In addition to iron, meat also provides a significant amount of protein, which is crucial for a child's growth, development, and overall health.

Fruits and vegetables, while nutritious, do not provide sufficient amounts of iron and protein relative to animal products. Limiting all forms of meat would decrease the intake of these vital nutrients rather than enhance it. Serving only dairy products might provide some protein and calcium, but dairy is not a good source of iron and would not contribute significantly to increasing iron intake in children.