New Report Warns of Unhealthy Eating Habits Among Toddlers: Nurseries Urged to Lead the Way in Promoting Better Choices
A new national report has raised concerns about the levels of salty, sugary and processed foods being consumed by toddlers across England. Published by the Office for Health Improvement & Disparities (OHID), the study highlights how nurseries can take a stand against unhealthy eating patterns that, if left unchecked, may influence children’s long-term health.
“The early years are a critical moment,” says Kathy Lewis, Registered Nutritionist. “When toddlers are regularly offered biscuits, crisps or sweetened drinks, it shapes their taste preferences and makes healthier foods harder to accept. Nurseries are uniquely placed to change this trajectory.”
The survey of over 2,600 caregivers revealed worrying findings:
- Fruit and Vegetables: only 62% ate vegetables and only 77% ate fruit at least once a day.
- Processed snacks: 84 % of toddlers ate packaged snack foods each week, with 21 % eating them daily.
- Sweet and salty treats: 49 % were given treats biscuits, chocolate, crisps, ice-cream or sweets every day. 17% had treats twice a day.
- Added salt: Despite official guidance, more than a third of caregivers admitted to adding salt to toddlers’ meals.
- Drinks: While water was common, 52% children consumed squash, with 21% consuming it daily — a habit that risks normalising sugary drinks.
“Toddlers should be exploring natural flavours and learning to enjoy fresh food. Too much salt or sugar at this age can damage health and set patterns that are difficult to reverse,” explains Kathy Lewis.
For nurseries, the message is clear: avoid normalising unhealthy foods. Instead, use mealtimes to reinforce national guidance and model healthy, everyday choices. By limiting biscuits, crisps, squash and processed snacks, nurseries can:
- Protect children’s developing taste buds from overexposure to salt and sugar.
- Reduce risks to dental health and future weight gain.
- Support parents by setting a consistent standard that discourages treats as daily foods.
- Create a culture where fruit, vegetables, and fresh foods are the “normal” snack.
“Every time a nursery swaps squash for water, or sugary snacks for fruit or dairy, or crisps for starchy snacks, it sends a powerful message,” says Kathy Lewis. “Children learn that healthy foods are the default, not the exception.”
Nurseries need to take immediate steps to curb unhealthy food habits by working with Registered Nutritionists and Dietitians to change nursery policies and practices.
“This report is a wake-up call,” concludes Kathy Lewis. “Nurseries have the chance to lead by example, showing families that healthy food doesn’t just nourish; it becomes the joyful, everyday norm.”
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For more information, interview requests or practical guidance, please contact:
Media Contact
Kathy Lewis
School Nutrition
kathy.lewis@schoolnutrition.co.uk
07961 317 621
Notes to Editors
- The report Eating habits of children aged 16 to 18 months was published on 22 August 2025 by the Office for Health Improvement & Disparities (OHID). Full report available at: GOV.UK
- Survey sample: 2,620 primary caregivers of children aged 16–18 months, as part of the Children of the 2020s longitudinal study.
- Key statistics from the report:
- 84 % of toddlers ate packaged snack foods weekly, 21 % daily.
- 49 % were given biscuits, crisps, cakes, sweets or chocolate daily.
- 8 % of caregivers often added salt to children’s meals, 29 % sometimes.
- 21 % of toddlers consumed squash daily.
- National guidance (NHS & Public Health England):
- Avoid adding salt or sugar to toddlers’ food.
- Provide only water or milk as drinks.
- Limit sugary snacks and encourage daily fruit and vegetable intake.
- School Nutrition was established in 2024 to provide expert, independent advice on nutrition in nurseries and schools. Unlike other nutrition advisory organisations, it is run entirely by Registered Nutritionists and receives no funding from the food industry.
- About Kathy Lewis: Kathy Lewis is a Registered Nutritionist, specialising in early years nutrition and public health, with experience supporting nurseries and health professionals in promoting healthier food environments. Kathy has worked as a Consultant Nutritionist for over 30 years, is a regular speaker and author on various publications. She is currently the Chair and Trustee at the Caroline Walker Trust.
