A mother who has never allowed her two-year-old daughter to eat processed foods has responded to critics who accused her of depriving the child.
The Viral Video That Sparked Debate
Last month, Alison Robinson, 29, from Louisiana, shared a video on social media from a Disney on Ice show. The clip showed her young daughter, Serena, snacking on an orange. Robinson used the video to explain her family's strict approach to nutrition, stating that Serena had never eaten anything she or her husband hadn't prepared themselves.
"Nothing store bought, nothing processed, no added sugar," Robinson wrote. "You can't give her a lollipop or a cookie." She added that her daughter doesn't order from kids' menus at restaurants and that she always packs a lunchbox whenever they leave the house. "We plan ahead, we prepare and we don't get lazy," she stated.
Responding to the Backlash
The video was met with a wave of criticism online, with viewers arguing the regime was unsustainable, especially as Serena begins to interact with other children. Critics accused Robinson of denying her daughter typical childhood treats like pizza and biscuits.
Speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail, Robinson said she was unfazed by the negative reaction. "I don't take any of the criticism personally. For me, it's about being a light for other families who are curious and wondering if it's even possible to take this approach with their kids," she explained.
Robinson, who owns a cold-pressed juice company with her husband, Dr. Akeem Robinson, 40, said her passion for health began in graduate school, long before motherhood. She lost over 30 pounds through strength training and learning to "fuel her body with intention," which led to reading labels and cooking from scratch.
Autonomy and Future Flexibility
Despite the rules, Robinson insists Serena has plenty of choice. "Some days it's smoothies and chicken wings, other days it's berries all day, just like any toddler," she said. The family uses whole-food sweeteners like dates and creates recipes for items like brownies and pancakes without added sugar.
Robinson believes there are significant benefits to this diet, including steady energy, supporting healthy growth, and reducing exposure to unnecessary chemicals. She is, however, realistic about the future.
"We never intended this to be forever, and we're comfortable with that. As she grows, goes to school, and gets involved in activities, she'll naturally be exposed to and try new foods, and that's completely okay," Robinson stated. She emphasised that her focus is on the foundational first 1,000 days of a child's life.
Robinson described the response to her video as "wild," but noted she has also received positive messages from parents who admire her approach. She hopes to use her platform to inspire others to make intentional choices for their children's health.
"My daughter is healthy. She is strong. She is so smart. She is so much fun," Robinson gushed. "She is not missing out."
