Food neophobia, the reluctance to try new foods, is a common stage in development that often begins after 18 months of age, according to Organix, a child food brand owned by Hero Group.
To address this challenge, Organix has launched an A-Z of Great Food campaign, aiming to introduce 26 new foods or flavors into kids’ diets. The campaign includes a wall chart and online resources, such as age-appropriate recipes and tips. Organix’s selection of foods and ingredients focuses on diversity and nutrition, offering a range of tastes, textures, and health benefits.
The campaign is supported by research conducted by Umeå University in Sweden, which found that varied diets in infancy led to increased intake of fruits and vegetables later in life.
Organix’s nutritionist team developed the campaign by creating a database of recommended foods for infants, incorporating the results of the OTIS study and additional research. The final selection of 26 foods was chosen based on their nutritional benefits, variety, and availability.
The campaign also addresses the issue of children in the UK not consuming enough nutritious foods, with YouGov research revealing low intake of fruits and vegetables among children. Organix aims to provide parents with easy tips and guidance on incorporating fresh foods into meals to support their children’s dietary habits. The A-Z campaign is intended to be interactive and engaging, involving children in food decisions and preparation.
By introducing new foods and involving children in mealtime activities, parents can help cultivate healthy eating habits that will benefit their children in the long term.