Which of the following is NOT one of the key principles of diet planning?

Ingredient control is not typically recognized as one of the key principles of diet planning. The primary principles usually focus on adequacy, nutrient density, variety, and balance.

Adequacy refers to ensuring that the diet provides enough nutrients to meet the needs of individuals. This principle is essential to prevent deficiencies and maintain overall health. Nutrient density involves selecting foods that provide a high amount of nutrients relative to their calorie content, which is important for achieving optimal health without excessive caloric intake. Variety encourages the inclusion of a wide range of different foods in the diet, which not only makes meals more enjoyable but also helps ensure that individuals receive a broad spectrum of nutrients.

While ingredient control might be a useful strategy in certain contexts, such as managing specific dietary restrictions or food allergies, it does not represent a fundamental principle of diet planning that applies universally across diverse dietary strategies. This distinction emphasizes the importance of focusing on nutrient content and dietary diversity rather than just the control of specific ingredients in food preparation or consumption.