#1216 - Nutritional Deception: What They're Not Telling You About Kids' Food

A shocking 90% of Australian baby and toddler foods fail to meet international guidelines, yet manufacturers employ deceptive marketing tactics to make us believe they're healthy choices. In this eye-opening episode, paediatric dietitian Kareena Savage reveals how "organic" labels and Health Star Ratings can mislead parents, with some toddler snacks containing more sugar than white chocolate. Learn practical strategies for decoding food labels, avoiding nutritional traps, and creating healthier, more affordable lunchboxes your kids will actually eat.

Quote of the Episode:

"We as parents in 2025 have it tougher than any other parent has ever had it in terms of trying to understand what is a healthy food choice for our child or for our family."

Key Points:

• Food manufacturers use deceptive marketing, with 90% of Australian baby/toddler foods failing international guidelines.
• Many products marketed as healthy (like "97% fruit and yoghurt") contain more sugar than white chocolate.
• When reading food labels, check the ingredients list first—shorter is better.
• Avoid products with sugar in the top three ingredients.
• For packaged foods, aim for less than 20g sugar per 100g.
• Keep sodium under 350mg per 100g.
• The Health Star Rating system has significant flaws—companies know how to "game" the system.
• Packaged foods are typically more expensive and less nutritious than whole foods.
• Homemade treats are healthier than commercial versions, even with similar ingredients.
• Setting clear boundaries around packaged foods helps children develop better eating habits.

 

Resources Mentioned:

• Visit nourishwithkarina.com for free recipes and nutrition information.
• Nourishing Kids support program
• Black bean brownie recipe

 

Action Steps for Parents:

1. Examine ingredient lists—choose products with shorter lists and recognisable ingredients.
2. Check sugar content—aim for less than 20g per 100g in cereals and snacks.
3. Monitor sodium levels—keep under 350mg per 100g.
4. Be sceptical of Health Star Ratings, especially on highly processed foods.
5. Limit children to 1-2 packaged items per day in lunchboxes.
6. Buy in bulk to reduce costs of healthier packaged options.
7. Batch-cook healthier versions of treats on weekends (using wholemeal flour and less sugar).
8. Set clear family boundaries around packaged food consumption.
9. Modify recipes by adding nutritious ingredients (extra egg, chia seeds, wholemeal flour).

 

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