For many parents, mealtimes can be a daunting experience, especially when dealing with picky eaters. Tears and tantrums often accompany refusals to eat certain foods, leaving parents frustrated and concerned. However, recent research offers reassurance that picky eating may not be entirely their fault.
A study conducted by researchers from University College London, King’s College London, and the University of Leeds discovered that food fussiness in children is largely influenced by genetics rather than environment. This finding should alleviate some of the guilt parents often feel.
The research involved over 2,000 pairs of identical and non-identical twins born in 2007 in the United Kingdom. Parents provided insights into their children’s eating behaviours from 16 months to 13 years old. By comparing genetic and environmental influences across both groups, researchers drew significant conclusions.
The study revealed that identical twins, sharing 100% of their genetic material, exhibited similar eating patterns. In contrast, non-identical twins showed less similarity in their food preferences. This indicates that genetics play a substantial role in determining a child’s willingness to try new foods.
According to the research, food pickiness typically peaks at age 7 and gradually declines during adolescence. Moritz Herle, a researcher at King’s College London, noted that picky eating causes significant stress for children and their families.
Herle emphasized that the study’s findings should help shift the blame from parents to genetics. Co-lead author Zeynep Nas from UCL echoed this sentiment, stating that fussy eating is largely innate and not a result of parenting.
While genetics dominate, environmental factors can influence food pickiness in toddlers. Early interventions can help children develop a more varied palate, reducing future pickiness. Abigail Pickard, a researcher at Aston University, suggested “maintaining a relaxed atmosphere” during meals and modelling healthy eating habits.
Pickard advised against using food as rewards, as this can create negative associations. By understanding the genetic basis of picky eating and adopting supportive strategies, parents can navigate mealtimes with greater ease and confidence.
