A survey of parents indicates that UK toddlers are being fed a “horrifying” diet with far too much junk food.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


The survey of 2000 parents, carried out by Mother and Baby magazine and Cow & Gate, revealed that children’s favourite foods included potato crisps and chocolate. Some 90% of toddlers are allowed to eat junk food on occasion, and 80% of parents conceded that their children had less healthy diets than they themselves had had at that age.


Despite the general perception that toddlers eat what they are fed and do not make their own food choices, few parents felt they were to blame for their toddlers’ inadequate diets, reported BBC News. Over half of children do not eat the recommended portions of fruit and vegetables each day.


The editor of Mother and Baby magazine, Karen Pasquali Jones, raised concerns about the fact that more toddlers are eating outside of family mealtimes, often in front of the TV. She commented: “Toddlers need the experience of sitting up at the table – it not only encourages them to eat properly, it improves their speech and social skills and encourages them to try new foods.”

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now