Nutrition lacks in slack snacks

Australians who think they're eating healthier are deluding themselves, according to a new survey. While around 40 per cent of people surveyed believed they were eating healthier than a year ago, snack choices often lacked valuable nutrients.

Research commissioned by Dairy Australia found people were shifting to grazing rather than dining - and their nutrition habits were slipping as a result.

Dairy Australia market insights manager Marsha Montebello said: "Between-meal snacking makes up nearly 30 per cent of our daily food intake - and it's not always healthy food we're eating."

The survey tracked attitudes towards health among 1142 urban Australians aged over 14. Diets were assessed on intake in the 24 hours prior to the survey.

Among adults who ate between meals, 22 per cent chose biscuits - a similar number to those who reported to snack on fruit. Confectionary was eaten by around 10 percent of grazers, as were cakes, scones, muffins or donuts.

"Unfortunately, people seem to prefer to grab a chocolate bar or some potato chips over other convenient snack foods like cheese and yoghurt, which are naturally full of nutrients," said Ms Montebello.

She said time-pressed grazers should consider quick, filling and nutritious snacks.

Dietitian Maree Garside said: "Focus on all the natural, delicious and enjoyable foods you can eat, rather than grabbing overly processed treats. After all, what's better than a handful of nuts, a creamy tub of yoghurt or some ripe strawberries?"

(Source: Maree Garside : Dairy Australia : October 2007)