UK Parents Spend Over £1,000 Yearly on Kids' Snacks: Survey

A survey of 1,200 parents with school-aged children in the UK reveals that kids consume an average of 1,146 snacks annually, costing families £1,059. The poll, conducted by Pilgrims Choice, found that children typically eat three snacks per day at an average cost of 92p each, including yoghurts, chocolate bars, and cheese.

Summer Break Snack Demands

During the six-week summer holiday, children announce 'I'm hungry' 104 times, with 11:54am identified as the peak snacking time. This leads to 27% of parents feeling additional pressure to keep cupboards and fridges stocked with appealing yet healthy options.

Parental Guilt and Healthy Choices

Nearly seven in ten parents feel guilty if they lack a variety of snacks for their children. Although 34% say their kids eat more healthy snacks than unhealthy ones, 78% wish their children would eat healthier. The study also found that 39% of parents give quick and easy snacks even if the child is bored of them.

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Willingness to Try New Flavours

Almost half (47%) of parents report their children are somewhat adventurous with new snacks or flavour combinations. Specifically, 47% of kids would try dark chocolate, 45% nuts, and 33% sweet-and-savoury combos. Bolder flavours include chilli jam, gherkins, jalapeños, and kimchi.

Comedian and cook George Egg, partnering with Pilgrims Choice, said: “There are plenty of tasty snack options for families to try, beyond crisps and biscuits. Even in the summer holidays snacking doesn’t have to break the bank - although the never-ending requests for food can break a parent’s patience.” He suggested combinations like mature cheddar with curry paste and walnut, or cheese with pickled onions and jam.

A spokesperson for Pilgrims Choice added: “Some kids are naturally hesitant about new flavours and trying new foods - let alone combining tastes and textures. So we’re delighted to work with George Egg to help encourage kids and parents alike to break free from the snacking repetition and really tantalise those taste buds.”