Novel nutritionally improved snacks for school-aged children: formulation, characterization, and acceptability.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to formulate multiple nutritionally improved snacks intended for school-aged children according to international nutritional goals: Vanilla cookies (VC), Bay biscuits (BB), Cheese crackers (CC), and Tomato muffins (TM). Design/methodology/approach: The reformulation targets implied incorporating alternative flours and milk powder, and reducing the sugar and sodium contents, with respect to the usually consumed control products. These products were subjected to proximate composition, colour, and sensory profile analyses. Their overall acceptability was assessed by school-aged children whose nutritional status was also evaluated. Findings: Significant increments in relevant nutrients were observed in the composition of snacks: fibre (p=0.01 for VC, p<0.01 for BB and CC), proteins (p<0.01 for all snacks), and calcium (p<0.01 for all snacks). Average sodium reductions of 1.5 % and 3.7 % were achieved for CC and TM. During formulation, added sugar was reduced by 15.5 % and 23.5 % for VC and BB. All snacks were found to be acceptable in terms of appearance, texture, flavour, and overall acceptability by the participants, and VC, BB, and CC were ready for their effective implementation as part of school meals. Originality/value: Comprehensive policies have become necessary to combat malnutrition, mainly overweight and obesity. The incorporation of nutritionally improved snacks in school environments is one of several strategies for promoting healthier lifestyles among children, including educational programs, workshops, and food assistance.