New research reveals over half of Irish parents experience snacking guilt

The research, which was conducted with 1700 parents in Ireland via Baby Doc, also revealed that 81% of parents would like their children to eat more fruit and vegetables while just over half (52%) admitted to giving their children sweets, chocolate, biscuits or sweets as snacks.

From what Irish parents find is the most frustrating part of feeding their child to what parents look for when it comes to choosing snacks for their family, the Ultimate Toddler Snacking Report takes a deep dive into Irish parents’ experiences when it comes to children’s snacking trends and brings to light some of the common frustrations parents have when it comes to guiding their little ones to embrace a healthier diet from a young age.

While some results might come as a surprise, one thing most Irish parents tend to agree on is that they rarely leave the house without being armed with snacks for their kids, and 98% of those surveyed believe that it’s important to give their children their ‘five a day’.

Pipin Pear is also hosting a panel event which will be led by broadcaster and mum of two, Jennifer Zamparelli, who will be discussing the research findings in more detail with fellow mum of three and nutritionist, Rosanna Davison, paediatric dietician and weaning expert Caroline O’Connor of SolidStart.ie and founder of Waterford-based baby food company Pipin Pear, Irene Queally.

The event, which will be hosted on the Pipin Pear Instagram page at 11am today, Tuesday, September 28th, will talk viewers through the interesting research results, offer their own insight as real mums (you’ll be glad to know that fussy eaters seem to come with the territory), as well as offering their expert tips and advice on how we can help our children make healthier choices on a daily basis.

The launch of the research report and panel event also coincides with the release of Pipin Pear’s first snack food, Freggie-Bites,a tasty and healthy snack combination of fruit and vegetables that have no added salt, sugar, additives, and hence, no guilt. The new range of snacks have been created by combining fruit and vegetables which will appeal to all ages from 12 months plus, making them the perfect snack to have on the go, in the car or to pack in lunchboxes.

Brand Ambassador for Pipin Pear and broadcaster Jennifer Zamparelli, commented:

“I cannot get through a day with my kids asking me 875 times for a snack. It is the single most frustrating question because it is asked of me all the time! We are a family on the go from work and activities and play dates and I’m all for variety in my kids diet providing it’s a healthy one. I just really love the fact that Pipin Pear offer a healthy alternative to snacking to help us on crazy journey of parenting or to even get us from school to the swim club so I’m delighted to be involved with this Irish business.”

Mum of three and nutritionist Rosanna Davison also commented, admitting that while she is really mindful of the types of snacks she offers daughter Sophia, she has to give in to less healthy snack options on occasion.

"As a nutritionist and a mum, I’m reasonably careful about what our daughter Sophia eats, because I'd like her to view treat foods high in refined sugar or salt as an occasional tasty snack and not an everyday indulgence. I try to avoid giving her foods filled with artificial additives and preservatives too. But like any parent, there have been a couple of occasions when we’re out and about and I’ve forgotten to pack provisions, so I need to stop and buy a more processed snack for her instead. The research done by Pipin Pear is really interesting and a great insight into Irish parents and how other mums and dads are managing their children and snacking, and just shows that we’re all having similar experiences. Sophia also tested out the new Freggie Bites last month and absolutely demolished the bag! She’s tried the three flavours now and really enjoys them. I make sure to pack a bag for our outings together and it’s good to know that she’s eating a healthy snack, packed with fruit and veg."

Freggie Bites are priced at €3.49 RRP and are now available to purchase from the baby aisle in Tesco Ireland Stores nationwide . Freggie-Bites come in multi-packs of five and in three delicious flavours to tempt your little ones. There is Apple & Spinach, Carrot & Peach and Apple, Blackcurrant & Pumpkin. Freggie-Bites are also dairy and gluten free and contain absolutely no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. The innovative tongue shape of the treat makes it easier for toddlers to handle and develop their fine motor skills.

The best part is that these snacks contain one of your five-a-day, making them the ultimate in guilt-free treats.

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