News

Chicken and cheese count as five a day, say children in healthy eating confusion

Around a quarter of primary school children think that chicken counts towards your five a day, according to a survey by the British Nutrition Foundation released to coincide with the start of Healthy Eating Week.
Both children and adults are confusion about nutrition PHOTO British Nutrition Foundation
Both children and adults are confusion about nutrition PHOTO British Nutrition Foundation

There is widespread confusion among both children and adults about which foods do and do not contain towards your five a day or provide fibre and protein, according to the findings. 

Twenty-four per cent of children surveyed aged between seven and 11 think that chicken counts towards your five a day, while 19 percent think that cheese counts.

The BNF carried out surveys with 1,590 primary pupils (age seven and above) and 2,415 secondary pupils. An online survey  of 2,099 adults was carried out by YouGov.

Primary school children completed the survey with the support of their teachers, who would have been able to answer any questions and clarify any terminology used in the survey questions. Children were not specifically asked if they know what 'five a day' means.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here