Aim
This pilot study aimed to determine the effectiveness of repeated exposure to either single or multiple target vegetables in increasing vegetable acceptance and intake in low-vegetable-consuming children aged 4−6 years
Objectives
It was hypothesized that exposure to multiple target vegetables would increase overall vegetable intake more than exposure to a single target vegetable, whereas the comparison group would not change their intake.
Summary
This pilot study was a randomized controlled trial with 3 conditions: (1) single vegetable exposure intervention, (2) multiple vegetable exposure intervention, and (3) comparison group. Interventions were parent-led and home-based. Children were exposed to a small piece of vegetable 3 times a week for 5 weeks (total of 15 exposure days). Children in the single vegetable group were exposed to the same vegetable (broccoli) on each exposure occasion. Children in the multiple vegetable group were exposed to 3 vegetables differing in flavor and texture properties (broccoli, zucchini, and peas). Two of 3 vegetables were offered on rotation, on each exposure occasion (total 10 exposures of each vegetable). Assessment of vegetable intake were conducted pre- and post- intervention, and after 3 months.
Journal article: https://www.jneb.org/article/S1499-4046(19)30896-6/fulltext