The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry
The research, conducted by independent research company TNS for the British Soft Drinks Association, shows that squash has retained popularity as a low-cost, enjoyable beverage choice for children of all ages.
Children’s drink choices have also become more varied, and fruit juice, juice drinks, bottled water and milk are now chosen twice as often as in 1993.
Key findings from the research show that:
55% of soft drinks consumed by children now contain no added sugar compared with 46% in 2004.
Children are now 20% more likely to consume a drink with no added sugar than they were in 2004.
Squash is the most popular soft drink in children’s school lunchboxes. Bottled water has also become increasingly popular.
97% of drinks consumed in school hours are obtained at school or brought in the lunchbox from home, and only 3% are obtained elsewhere.
>More than 86% of soft drinks (and 93% of fruit juices) are consumed with food.
These findings highlight that children now have a wide range of soft drinks to choose from, with new choices gaining in popularity alongside old favourites.
The research found that parents want to play an active role in ensuring their children have a balanced diet, and want to set a good example so their children understand the need to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
In the upper age group (11-16s), there is an increased proportion of children opting for more adult-oriented drinks such as carbonates, 21% of 11-16-year-olds opting for carbonates in comparison to 13% of 6-10s. Squash still remains the most popular soft drink type and is chosen 22% of the time.
When consuming soft drinks with their parents, the research showed that children drink a similar range of drinks. The most noticeable difference when children are with adults is that for children between the ages of 6-16 years old, tea is three or four times more likely to be consumed.
Commenting on the findings of this research, Jill Ardagh, BSDA director general, said: “This research provides a fascinating insight into what children are drinking and how their habits have changed. Children and their parents now have a wide range of soft drinks to choose from, helping them keep refreshed and hydrated throughout the day and maintain a balanced diet and active lifestyle."