The majority of kids’ calories come from “ultra-processed foods”—and Millennial parents want healthier options. A new JAMA study of two-19-year-olds in the U.S. reports that 67% of children and teens’ calories are from ultra-processed foods like chips, cookies, frozen pizza and meals—a share that increased nearly six percentage points between 1999 and 2018. Ready to heat dishes are responsible for the majority of the increase, indicating busy parents’ reliance on convenient and fast frozen dishes. But Millennial parents are looking for healthier versions of these products, with 55% of Millennial moms saying their kids are more likely to choose better-for-you snacks, according to Amplify Snack Brands. YPulse’s cooking and diets research also shows that 69% of Millennial parents often worry that their family is not eating enough healthy foods. Healthier classic snacks have become more common, but frozen foods could be due for a similar makeover. Brands are beginning to provide some of these options, with Green Giant launching cauliflower and veggie tots, and Oh Yes! Foods frozen pizza made with 12 fruits and vegetables. (Food Dive)
