J S A Edwards1, H H Hartwell. 1. The Worshipful Company of Cooks of London Research Centre, Bournemouth University, Poole, Dorset, UK. edwardsj@bournemouth.ac.uk
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether children, aged 8-11 years could correctly identify commonly available fruit and vegetables; to assess the acceptability of these; and to gain a broad understanding of children's perceptions of 'healthy eating'. METHODS: Fruit and vegetables used were those readily available in retail outlets in the UK. Data were collected from three year-groups (n = 221) using a questionnaire supported by semistructured interviews and discussions. RESULTS: Overall, fruit was more popular than vegetables and recognition of fruit better; melons being the least well identified. Recognition of vegetables increased with age; the least well identified being cabbage which was confused with lettuce by 32, 16 and 17% of pupils in their respective age groups. Most children (75%) were familiar with the term healthy eating, citing school (46%) as the most common source of information. Pupils showed an awareness and understanding of current recommendations for a balanced diet, although the message has become confused. CONCLUSIONS: If fresh fruit and vegetables are to form part of a balanced diet, the 'health message' needs to be clear. Fruit is well liked; vegetables are less acceptable with many being poorly recognized, factors which need to be addressed.
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether children, aged 8-11 years could correctly identify commonly available fruit and vegetables; to assess the acceptability of these; and to gain a broad understanding of children's perceptions of 'healthy eating'. METHODS: Fruit and vegetables used were those readily available in retail outlets in the UK. Data were collected from three year-groups (n = 221) using a questionnaire supported by semistructured interviews and discussions. RESULTS: Overall, fruit was more popular than vegetables and recognition of fruit better; melons being the least well identified. Recognition of vegetables increased with age; the least well identified being cabbage which was confused with lettuce by 32, 16 and 17% of pupils in their respective age groups. Most children (75%) were familiar with the term healthy eating, citing school (46%) as the most common source of information. Pupils showed an awareness and understanding of current recommendations for a balanced diet, although the message has become confused. CONCLUSIONS: If fresh fruit and vegetables are to form part of a balanced diet, the 'health message' needs to be clear. Fruit is well liked; vegetables are less acceptable with many being poorly recognized, factors which need to be addressed.
Authors: Maria C Garcia-Lascurain; Jana R Kicklighter; Satya S Jonnalagadda; Erin Atkerson Boudolf; Deborah Duchon Journal: J Immigr Minor Health Date: 2006-01
Authors: Jasper R F W Leuven; Annerie H M Rutenfrans; Alexander G Dolfing; Rob S E W Leuven Journal: Food Sci Nutr Date: 2018-09-07 Impact factor: 2.863