Foods such as sweets, crisps and sugary drinks make up more than 20 per cent of children’s total calorie intake, researchers found.
The Dietary Intake in Scotland’s Children (DISH) survey is the first significant investigation into the dietary habits of children in 15 years.
The survey also reveals concerning levels of food insecurity, with one in five households worried about running out of food. This increases to nearly half of families in the most deprived areas of Scotland.
Experts say the findings highlight the importance of addressing food insecurity, particularly among the most vulnerable families.
Age matters
The study investigated the diets of 1700 children and young people aged 2 to 15.
Researchers found that older children (11 to 15 years) have less healthy diets than younger children, consuming diets significantly higher in free sugars – sugars added to food and drinks – and lower in fibre.
There was also evidence of low vitamin and mineral intakes among older children, such as iron and magnesium. This could increase the risk of a range of deficiency related diseases, such as anaemia.
Good sources of fibre can include porridge oats, wholemeal bread, baked potatoes with the skin on, reduced-sugar and reduced-salt beans, vegetables and fruit. Magnesium can be found in spinach, kale, cabbage, fruit, wholemeal bread and brown rice, the team say.
The research was carried out by the Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Systems at the University of Edinburgh and Taylor McKenzie Research and Marketing on behalf of Food Standards Scotland.