Pruebas de sabor

Taste tests are a great way for children to utilize their five senses and explore new foods. Taste tests can be conducted in the cafeteria, classroom, or integrated into different subjects to enhance an academic lesson. When children understand the origin of the food they are consuming, they are more likely to try it! 

Be aware of choking risks and food allergies when conducting taste tests. Think about the size, shape, and consistency when choosing foods due to the potential choking risks in children. Avoid food cut in large chunks, small hard foods, and soft and sticky food, such as; hotdogs, meats, sausages, fish with bones, a spoonful of peanut butter, popcorn, chips, pretzel nuggets, raisins, whole grapes, raw carrots, fruits and vegetables with skins, and marshmallows.1 Children must always remain supervised while eating!

Many children have food allergies or sensitivities to food. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 90% of children’s food allergies are from milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (included but not limited to pecan/walnuts), fish, shellfish, strawberries, soy, wheat, and gluten.1 Carefully read food labels for potential risks and be sure to check with a parent, school nurse and school nutrition director if children have a known allergy or sensitivity.