Factors affecting the formation of food preferences in preschool children

It has been found that a complex and varied diet increases the probability that foods containing essential nutrients will be consumed by the pre‐school child. Because variety in the diet is beneficial identification of factors that affect the development of food preferences in young children is important. Such factors include familiarity, age, parents, peers, teachers and programs designed to influence food habits. Each of these are discussed and recommendations are given to pre‐school programs for creating an atmosphere conducive to trying new foods.