Green bean twists
Green bean twists (Source: MeatPoultryNutrition.org)
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Kids are notoriously picky eaters, which makes the task of getting them to consume healthy foods even more challenging for parents. The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) is trying to help with that task. NAMI, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, unveiled a list of kid-friendly beef recipes designed to encourage children to eat more fruits and vegetables, and healthy proteins.

Developed by a Culinary Institute of American-trained chef and veteran mom, the Kid Pleaser recipes are available, along with strategies for feeding kids on
MeatPoultryNutrition.org.

According to researchers, “neophobia” or “the fear of something new” plays a major role in children’s eating habits. Pediatricians recommend frequent, repeated exposure to a new food. Pairing fruits and vegetables with foods that they enjoy, however — something called “associative conditioning” — can encourage children to try the new food, according to NAMI.

NAMI’s Kid Pleaser recipes include:

• Barber’s Pole,
• Bologna Roll-Ups,
• Green Bean Twists,
• Fried Bologna Cups,
• Salami Babs,
• Jerky Trail Mix,
• Doggie Babs and
• Beefy Lettuce Cups.