In the UK, Chips are still at top of kids' snacks wish-list

Children's favourite snacks are crisps, biscuits, cakes and confectionery but the healthy eating message is filtering through, according to a new survey.

The survey was commissioned by the UK Federation of Bakers (FoB) and Flour Advisory Bureau (FAB).

When asked to list their favourite after school snacks, school children aged 11 to 16 voted for crisps (48 per cent), chocolate/sweets (39 per cent), biscuits/cakes (32 per cent) and fizzy drinks (27 per cent).

For children aged 4 to 11 years, a similar picture emerged. Some 51 per cent preferred tucking into crisps after school, 44 per cent favoured biscuits, 40 per cent chocolates/sweets and 24 per cent fizzy drinks.

However, 32 per cent of 11 to 16 year olds and 54 per cent of 4 to 11 year olds also snack on fruit. Yogurt and smoothies were popular with 27 per cent of 11 to 16 year olds and 42 per cent of 4 to 11 year olds.

These findings suggest that the bottom line for snack manufacturers, bakers and confectioners still depends on traditional products but an appreciation of healthier alternatives by children and young people is creeping in.