ABSTRACT There may be links between maternal food neophobia (MFN), eating disorders, and children’s food preference. To define whether MFN and eating disorders affect their children’s eating behaviors. The survey included of socio-demographic characteristics, Food Neophobia Scale (FNS), Eating Attitude Test 26 (EAT26) and Children Eating Behaviour Scale. Children’s energy and nutrient intakes were assessed through interviews with their mothers (24-hour dietary recall method). Anthropometric measurements of children were measured and of mothers were recorded. Linear regression analyses were employed to examine the relationships between maternal characteristics and children’s food approach and avoidant behaviors. Mothers (n = 360) and children (n = 360; aged 3–5 years) were enrolled. Of the mothers, 166 were neophobic, 194 neophilic. MFN score inversely correlated with children’s energy and several vitamins and mineral (Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Zn) intake (all p < .05). The results of the regression analysis indicated that the Children’s Food Approach score was influenced by the mother’s age, BMI, FNS, and EAT-26 score. Conversely, the Children’s Food Avoidant score was found to be affected by the mother’s FNS and EAT-26 score. MFN and maternal eating attitudes have a significant impact on children’s food access and avoidance.
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