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Kids’ lunchboxes are being packed with too many ultra-processed snacks, according to researchers. (Nine)<\/p>\nKids’ lunchboxes are being packed with too many chips, biscuits, and processed snacks, according to new research.<\/p>\n
The study, conducted by Deakin University, involved interviews with 682 primary school students to find out what they’re eating.<\/p>\n
The findings indicated that children aged between eight and twelve years get about 47 per cent of their daily caloric intake from ultra-processed foods such as chips, biscuits, and sausage rolls.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Kids’ lunchboxes are being packed with too many ultra-processed snacks, according to researchers. (Nine)<\/p>\n
“They have additives like colours, emulsifiers, flavours, thickeners,” said Dr Carley Grimes from the Institute for Physical Activity & Nutrition.<\/p>\n
“It’s setting children up for poor eating habits.”<\/p>\n
The study has raised concerns about the long-term health impacts, given the correlation between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and increased Body Mass Index (BMI) in children as young as 10.\u00a0<\/p>\n
“If it persists later into life – that sets them up for a range of chronic disease risk,” Grimes said.<\/p>\n
Cost and convenience were identified as significant factors behind the glut of processed food.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The study looked at what kids ate over a full 24 hours, so while what’s in the lunchbox is key on school days, experts say there’s plenty of scope to also pack extra good stuff into breakfast and dinner.<\/p>\n
Making homemade options, freezer stashes, and buying in-season are other tips to help parents get the balance right.<\/p>\n