Children’s intake of candy while in the absence of hunger exceeds USDA SoFAS limits (47.4)

Abstract

Children’s intake of candy has increased over the past three decades, and is a source of added sugars and empty calories in middle childhood. However, little is known about the factors that influence children’s intake of candy. We examined children’s (ages 5‐8) intake of candy while in the absence of hunger in a laboratory setting, and evaluated individual differences in children’s candy intake. Children (n=66) were provided with a standard lunch consisting of a sandwich, milk, and apple slices; following lunch, each child self‐reported on their hunger level, and if not hungry, they were provided with free access to11 types of candy (e.g. solid chocolate bars, lollipops). Children’s height/weight were measured. On average, children consumed 198 kcals (SD = 118.8; range 0 to 464) of candy following a standard lunch, amounting to ~15.2% of the USDA estimated calorie needs for the average sedentary 4‐8 year old. Children’s energy intake from chocolate candies (M=102.3, SD=101.1; range 0 to 385) and non‐chocolate candies (M=96.7, SD=72.9; range 0 to 332) did not differ. In addition, no differences were observed by child gender, age, or BMI. Overall, our results indicate that children’s intake of candy in a free access condition and while in the absence of hunger exceeds the maximum limit (8‐9%) suggested by the USDA for calories from solid fats and added sugars (SoFAS).Grant Funding Source: Supported by the National Confectioners' Association