to help athletes achieve optimal performance. Based on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the American Heart Association’s Eating Plan for Healthy Americans, the program features innovative menu items made with lean proteins, heart-healthy fats, whole grains and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables.
As a proud Sponsor of the 2008 and 2010 U.S. Olympic Teams, Tyson Foods is contributing to the USOC’s Performance Nutrition plan by providing quality protein to fuel the athletes for success every step of the way, from the U.S. Olympic Training Centers to the Olympic Games in Beijing.
“You can build the greatest training center in the world, but without solid nutrition, there will be no gold medals,” said Terri Moreman, FMP, associate director of food and nutrition services for the USOC. “When it comes to the U.S. Team’s success, we believe that nutrition can make the difference. The USOC is extremely grateful for Tyson’s support in supplying our athletes with the quality protein that is essential to their performance.”
Protein to Go
In addition to three protein-packed, nutritious meals a day at the training centers, U.S. Olympic hopefuls are receiving Travel Nutrition Kits, courtesy of Tyson Foods. The kits are designed to help athletes take Performance Nutrition with them on the road when they compete in training camps, World Cup competitions and U.S. Olympic Team qualifiers. Equipped with a hot pot, power adapter, Tyson(r) pouch chicken and recipes, U.S. Olympic hopefuls can prepare quick and easy protein-rich meals with the comforts of home, no matter where they are.
Cooking for Champions
In an effort to comply with these gold-medal nutrition standards, USOC Executive Chef Jacque Hamilton has reworked many of her recipes for the athletes in training. Rather than overhauling the menu, she has switched to healthier ingredients and cooking methods. As a result, Hamilton has lowered sodium, decreased fats and eliminated all trans fats – even from traditionally rich comfort foods, like macaroni and cheese.
Hamilton also is keenly aware of the need to make the meals delicious as well as nutritious. Most recipes must pass a taste test in her own home before she lets the athletes sample them.
“These recipes are some of the athletes’ favorites,” said Hamilton. “They were chosen for our Beijing menu because they provide the athletes with a taste of home. They also help to make our Beijing menu versatile because each dish has a distinct flavor profile that can be easily paired with interesting side dishes.”
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