Food has never been so much talked about. New food trends are emerging to benefit our health, but also our wallets and our values. What about the little ones' plates? Should they adapt to new trends? Here are 8 trends that can very well integrate into the children's menu.
Veganism is on everyone's lips. Certainly the most marked trend, it excludes all foods from animals from one's diet. In its wake, flexitarianism has emerged, which encourages reducing one's consumption of animal proteins rather than banning them completely.
Moving towards veganism
However, a vegetarian or vegan diet can meet a child's needs if it is rich in energy, balanced and varied, indicates the Naître et grandir website. "By varying the sources of plant proteins (legumes, tofu, cereal products, nuts, tempeh, etc.) throughout the day, you ensure that they complement each other."
Eat raw
Initiated in Europe, the " Cook It Raw " movement was launched by chefs to promote raw food as a guarantee of "real" taste. Thus, foods that have not undergone any processing or alteration during cooking would retain their nutritional qualities.
The raw trend seems to be echoing all the way to North America. It's also the best way to introduce new fruits and vegetables, as well as other foods, to little ones.
Buy local
They say that buying is voting. Eating is too. Quebec foods are gaining popularity for several reasons: first to encourage the local economy, but also for the authenticity of the products. According to recent surveys, it seems that local is now winning out over organic.
Introduce allergenic foods
Peanuts, nuts, eggs, etc.: When should allergenic foods be introduced? The answer changed last year: the Canadian Paediatric Society now recommends introducing solid allergenic foods to all children (even those at high risk) around six months of age (but not before four months), or as soon as they are ready for solid foods.
According to the most recent studies on the subject, delaying the consumption of these foods would not prevent the development of a food allergy in the newborn.
Add (good) fat
Forget the ketogenic (or keto) diet: to grow well, babies certainly need fat. But good fats.
Good fats found in milk, yogurt, cheese, oily fish, eggs, avocados and many other foods contribute to a child's growth and brain development. Favor them!
Place the meal in the center of the table
How do you get your child to eat their entire plate? By letting them help themselves. That's the approach of nutritionist Sandra Griffin, aka Maman mange bien , who we follow on social media.
By placing the meal in the center of the table, each child (who eats pieces independently) can choose the food and the portion they want to eat. They also have the option of helping themselves if necessary.
In the same style, toddlers also love the Bento box trend, which "deconstructs" traditional lunches. Have you tried it?
Promoting autonomy with DME
BLW: three letters that have been shaking up parenting and baby nutrition books for several years. Gaining in popularity, BLW stands for baby-led weaning.
With independent feeding, complementary foods are introduced in the form of pieces of food, not pureed food. In addition, with this approach, parents do not spoon-feed their baby. Instead, the baby takes the food with his hands and brings it to his mouth himself.
Reduce food waste
A slightly wilted carrot? Baby not eating his meal? Did you know that we throw away an average of $27 per week of food in the trash. It's no surprise that reducing food waste is now a priority for many families and a trend for 2020.
Need advice, recipes and tips for reusing food and keeping produce fresh longer? The organization Les AmiEs de la Terre de Québec has just launched the book Sauve ta bouffe . Read it!
photo Annie Lafrance
At the table!
Mealtime is certainly more enjoyable for children with utensils, dishes and accessories specially designed for small, sometimes clumsy hands. In addition to being durable and easily washable (we love it!), these accessories allow children to develop their independence and dexterity.
Here are our most recent favorites seen at the Charlotte and Charlie boutique:
Keep your little one clean with this gorgeous collection of silicone bibs. Designed in Sweden, Mushie bibs are comfortable, practical and easy to clean.
Tired of plastic sets? Opt for silicone, which won't wear out or fade. These first meal sets from Ezpz use suction to hold the all-in-one placemat and bowl in place, preventing messes.
Toddlers love to get their hands dirty. With the help of this Justenbois knife , they can help prepare meals in complete safety.
Promote your baby's independence with Grabease utensils , the safest and easiest to hold on the market! They will be able to eat alone and imitate you during mealtimes.
Meet the next generation high chair! Stay ahead of the trends with the Nomi chair , which will grow with your baby, right from the first days of their life. Plus: it is made from 100% recyclable and renewable materials.
The Lässig bamboo baby plate stands out for its functionality, attractive design and sustainable materials. Your little one will enjoy meals with these delicately patterned plates.
You will find a host of items for the kitchen and meals for toddlers at Charlotte et Charlie. Check out this section to find them.
And enjoy your meal!
Cover photo: Oli&Carol
