Effects of Energy Density on Self-served Snacks in Preschool Children

Self-served Snack Study for Preschool Children

The purpose of the study is to determine whether the energy density of snack foods affects the amounts that preschool children serve themselves and then consume. We will serve snacks that vary in energy density to preschool children in their childcare centers and measure the amount they serve themselves and consume. The results will have implications for guidance about the provision of snacks for preschool children and may help in identifying strategies for the prevention of obesity in children.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children who are enrolled in a scheduled classroom of the participating childcare centers
• Children who are between the ages of 4 and 6 years old at the time of enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children who have tested positive or are showing symptoms of COVID-19, or have recently had potential exposure with a person with COVID-19
• Children who are allergic to any of the foods served
• Children whose diets exclude any of the foods served
• Children who are absent from the childcare center on the acclimation day or both study days
• Children who are not able to serve themselves the two foods that are provided during the acclimation day