The eating habits of children may be improving, which is good news for the health of America. A survey out of Chicago indicates that children under 13 are forgoing some of the most unhealthy fast food fare in favor of healthier options. The economy might be partly responsible, as sales of kids’ meals are down across the board, and fewer kids’ birthday parties are being held at restaurants. Still, sales of fast food value meals are up, but children are reportedly eating less french fries, chicken nuggets, and hamburgers of late.
In place of those unhealthy items, the under-13 crowd is eating more soup, yogurt, fruit, and carrots. This trend is coinciding with changing menus at some fast food restaurants, which now offer choices like apples, non-fat chocolate milk (instead of soda), and yogurt. Simply providing healthier options for kids makes a noticeable difference. If more restaurants and school lunch programs can offer more nutritious alternatives, we can expect to see a continuation of this shift in kids’ diets.
Read the story in the NY Times here.
