Study shows children are not eating enough healthy food

CHOCOLATE, biscuits and crisps are the most common snacks in lunchboxes due to the cost-of-living crisis, a back-to-school survey has revealed.

- BY LARISSA NOLAN

As schools around Ireland start the new term, Lidl’s research shows these less-healthy treats are a feature for the majority of students (56%).

It revealed that for many parents (52%), the cost of healthier alternatives can be a barrier, with one-third saying they found it too expensive to continue. Bars of chocolate and packets of crisps can be seen as a cheaper choice.

The survey also found one in four parents (39%) of primary school kids struggle to get their child to eat a healthier alternative, such as fruit or nuts; rising to almost half (49%) of secondary school-goers.

When it comes to the energy-boosting afternoon snack, 44% of parents say they actively try to provide a different snack every day, whilst 83% say that if they find something healthy that their child will eat, they incorporate it as much as possible into the lunchbox.

The research was done ahead of the back-to-school rush to uncover the attitudes and behaviours of parents towards their children’ eating habits and to identify barriers to healthier eating.

But there are ways around it, according to Lid!’ registered dietitian Orla Walsh, who gave her tips for better choices and listed her top vitamin-packed snacks for those going back to school.