Most Children Believe Pasta and Bread Come from Meat

According to a poll conducted by the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF), most U.K. children have poor knowledge about the origins of food.

The survey stated that nearly one third of the country's children think that plants produce cheese and almost a quarter children think fish fingers are made from chicken or pigs. One in 10 secondary school children think tomatoes grow underground.

Last month, around 27,500 children aged between 5 and 16 were questioned for the poll. It revealed that most of the children did not know or were confused about the origins of the staple food such as pasta and bread. Around one third of children between 5 and 8 years of age believed that pasta and bread are prepared from meat. About 19 percent of children from this age group said they did not know that potatoes grow underground.

However, around 77 percent of primary school children and 88 percent of secondary school children knew that it is advisable to eat at least five portions of fruits and vegetables in a day. But, most of the children do not follow this routine. As many as 67 percent of primary school children and 81 percent of secondary pupils said they ate four or fewer portions each day.

The survey also reported a rise in the number of children skipping their breakfast, the most important meal of the day. These numbers increased with age stated the report. It also revealed that just 17 percent of the children consumed fish twice a week, the recommended amount.

According to BBC, England's Department for Education spokesman said, "We want to encourage children to develop a love of food, cooking and healthy eating that will stay with them as they grow up."

He further said that the board will decide on curriculum reforms on food and nutrition for children between 8 and 14. "In addition, the Leon restaurant chain founders Henry Dimbleby and John Vincent have been appointed by the Secretary of State to lead an independent review of school food. The review is looking into what needs to be done to ensure that all pupils develop an understanding of food and nutrition," the spokesman said.