A survey of 1,000 parents conducted by the Infant and Toddler Forum found that 29 per cent of children under three consume a takeaway at least once a week, 19 per cent of toddlers are fed takeaways or adult readymeals for most meals, and 23 per cent eat crisps almost every day.
Results from the online poll of parents of children aged nine months to three years, have been published in the report Food and Nutrition for the Under-Threes by the Infant and Toddler Forum.
The report also highlights parents' misunderstandings about their child's nutritional needs, with 83 per cent of mothers claiming their child has a healthy balanced diet despite the findings, and more than a third of mothers believing their baby could have more salt than is recommended.
Professor Atul Singhal, honorary consultant pediatrician at the Institute of Child Health in London, and chair of the Infant and Toddler Forum, said, 'Currently there is a gap in guidance for mothers of the under-threes, after the weaning stage. Early intervention is key if we are to win the fight against obesity. Focusing on health and nutrition in the early years will improve public health in the years to come by giving all children the best start in life.'
The Infant and Toddler Forum has launched a website called Little People's Plates, which gives practical tips and nutritional guidance for childcare professionals and parents. The site uses evidence-based advice on healthy eating to help parents make sensible informed choices on how to feed their child.
Further information: Visit www.littlepeoplesplates.co.uk
