Survey Reveals Fruit Now No. 1 Kids Snack

As noted in a recent press release from the Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH), Wilmington, DE, Americans are becoming more health conscious when it comes to what types of snacks they provide for their children. According to survey results recently released by The NPD Group, Port Washington, NY, fruit is now the No. 1 snack choice for children under age 6, displacing cookies, which move to the No. 2 slot.

New data shows that cookies, which held the top spot the last time snack data was collected in 1987, are now ranked No. 2, after fruit. NPD based its findings on 2-week-long food and beverage journals filled out by mothers across the country. From 1985 to 1987, 500 moms participated, while 600 took part in the 2005 to 2007 survey.

Other findings from the survey: Carbonated soft drinks held the No. 6 spot in popularity in 1987, but didn’t make the top 10 this year. Cake has also dropped off the list. Meanwhile popcorn, which did not appear on the list in 1987, is now ranked No. 6. Popcorn is considered a whole-grain snack.

“We hope that the trend of healthier snacking for kids continues and we want to help parents make sure it does,” said Elizabeth Pivonka, Ph.D., R.D., president and CEO, PBH.

According to a survey recently conducted by PBH, the perception of fruits and vegetables as healthy foods continues to grow year after year. Ninety-four percent of moms surveyed reportedly agreed with the statement, “A diet that includes fruits and vegetables may help children avoid obesity.” Moms also reported that it was easier for them to include fruit as a snack rather than at other times of the day. These statistics may help explain the increased popularity of fruit as a snack.