The food products with shortest shelf life should be used first on the voyage. Food products should be used in an economical, sensible and varied way. The meals that are served should also meet the different requirements and needs of the crew for a nutritious, varied and good quality diet. The food served daily should also take account of individual needs, for example the needs of diabetics and crew members with food intolerance or allergies. The ships’ cook should also understand the significance of the cultural, religious and social aspects of mealtimes on board. Regulation 3.2 specifically mentions the need to take into account the differing cultural and religious backgrounds of the crew.