On the basis of published evidence of the negative effects of marital dissolution on homemaking and the implicit negative effects of father absence on mealtime, it was hypothesized that intact families and families with separated parents would differ in aspects of family life associated with food. Of particular interest were the subhypotheses that (1) separated or divorced mothers would be less satisfied with their roles as parents and homemakers; (2) their families' meal patterns would differ from those of intact families, and (3) more television viewing during the evening meal would occur in the absence of a second adult. A total of 18 married and 18 separated or divorced mothers of preschool children participated in the study. Data were collected through an exploratory questionnaire and a record of seven consecutive evening meals. Differences found between groups were relatively small, and results suggest that separated custodial mothers and their families are making practical adaptations to lifestyle change. However, the degree to which members of such families are vulnerable to health and nutritional risks requires further investigation. Specifically, the quality of food, rather than the arrangements concerning the preparation and consumption of meals, merits further attention. Married mothers catered to parental food preferences, while separated mothers emphasized those of the children. Some between-group differences in meal patterns were found. (RH)