Authors : S. Mahalakshmi; Syed Suha A.

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/y6zfxu6m

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1621

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Abstract : Pre-adolescent eating behaviour is a Key component of nutrition, health and long-term Diets. This paper will discuss the eating behaviour of children aged between 9 and 12 years and the consideration of factors that affect their food choices, food preferences and meal practices. The research design was descriptive and primary data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. Convenient sampling was used to pick out 100 students belonging to Pallavaram and Chromepet. The questionnaire was the issue of food preferences of children, how taste influences the adoption of more nutritious food options, how fast children ate, whether they enjoyed their meal or not, and whether they ate mindfully. Results suggest that eating behaviour of children is significantly affected by taste, familiarity as well as pleasure of food. Children who reflected on their eating habits and spent ample time to eat their meal were better placed to enjoy their food experiences and were more willing to explore other foods. Conversely, selective food consumption and low inclination towards some foods were linked with inadequate dietary uptake and resistance to take up new food products. The findings also indicate that exposure to variety of foods and to appealing meals, in taste and appearance, may have a positive effect on healthy eating behaviour. These results indicate the importance of considering both sensory attractiveness and behaviour involvement in the context of addressing eating behaviour in pre-adolescent children. Promotion of mindful eating, slow the introduction of new foods, and the provision of a wide selections of attractive and healthful choices may aid in the development of positive eating habits, thus promoting greater nutrition and health results throughout the pre-adolescence period.

Keywords : Eating Behaviour, Pre-Adolescent Nutrition, Dietary Preferences, Mindful Eating, Fruit And Vegetable Intake, Taste Influence.

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