With the help of some leading experts, PubChef dispels some of the myths surrounding kids' food
Myth 1 - potatoes are unhealthy
A popular favourite among children of all ages, it is tempting to think of potatoes only in terms of chips. But there are many other ways of serving them in order to maximise their nutritional benefit for children. The British Potato Council (BPC) suggests potato waffles and wedges, jacket and new potatoes and potato salad to name a few.
Kay Hogg, assistant marketing manager for the BPC, says: "Not only are potatoes an excellent source of low-fat carbohydrate energy for children, they also provide a good amount of fibre and are packed full of vitamins and minerals. In fact, a jacket potato provides more than half of the daily-recommended requirement of Vitamin C for a child."
For a range of healthy cooking tips visit www.potato.org.uk
Myth 2 - Children are fussy eaters
The British Pig Executive (BPEX) says caterers do not realise that children actually have a wide taste palate and enjoy a variety of foods, such as pork.
Tony Goodger, BPEX's foodservice trade manager, says: "Pork is low in fat, flavoursome and versatile. Generally it has a fast cooking time, is cost effective and popular with many children."
BPEX suggests adult-style meals using pork mince, such as Italian meatballs with spaghetti. Tony adds that traditional favourites, such as bangers and mash, can be made healthier by substituting low-fat and reduced-salt sausages.
Myth 3 - Children aren't prepared to experiment
Providing that food is easy to eat and appealing to look at, the boundaries can be pushed to offer healthy alternatives. Padley's, which supplies a range of chicken products, feels that the answer lies in the presentation. With this in mind, it puts forward nutritional serving suggestions to make mealtimes fun. A witches theme can be created by serving a chicken burger with a scary ketchup face piped on, teamed with a jacket potato cauldron and carrot broomsticks.
For further information, call 0800 085 2749 or visit
www.padley.co.uk
Myth 4 - Children don't like grown-up food
Kids' pub food is often thought of only in terms of pre-formed shapes and burgers. But many children, particularly older ones, are keen to try food from the main menu as it makes them feel like adults.
Serving smaller portions of adult meals is an easy way to offer a wider choice of children's dishes and saves on both time and cost.
The Three Fishes at Mitton, Lancashire, offers a young person's menu, see box on page 30. Fridgeway, a branch of Oak Farm Foods, offers a range of reduced-salt kids' meals that includes penne in tomato sauce, lasagne and cottage pie.
Myth 5 - Kids don't like fruit and vegetables
It is true to say that many children react badly when presented with a plate of unimaginative vegetables, but if properly presented, their colour and suitability as hand-held food make them an appealing alternative to beans or spaghetti hoops.
The Three Horseshoes at Scottow in Norfolk offers its younger customers a selection of raw vegetable crudites with a mayonnaise dip.