Are you a picky eater? I am not. I absolutely do not understand how people can be so picky about food!!We all have our likes and dislikes, but picky eaters are impossible. A picky eater is someone who makes a fuss about the food they eat, or is not very open to trying new foods. Most picky eaters are kids but adults can have the same problem. I think adults are less picky because once you are older; their taste buds wear out and are not as affected as kids. Something a bit bitter to them, may taste horrendous to us kids. That is my opinion because it seems like adults will eat anything.

The main problem with picky eating is that we judge a book by its cover. This means when you look at something that doesn’t exactly have an attractive appearance. But if you gave it a chance, it could become your favourite food. I think all of us have done that a few times but who can blame us. Looks can be deceiving. Kids tend to be picky towards the following types of food: Vegetables, foods from different cultures, things out of their usual meal (unless it is something sugary) and more. Broccoli, asparagus, Brussel sprouts, peas, avocado, and other veggies are the most commonly disliked type of food. I am just giving you facts so don’t think I hate these things. In fact, I love almost all the vegetables….except asparagus.

Anyway, I think the media is partly a reason for this. The media (television, radio) portraits some foods worse than they really are. They do this by making the food look and taste bad. A show I have watched that is an example of this habit is Charlie Brown. Charlie Brown was arguing with his parents because he didn’t like his food. He hated it. Food like veggies, or even eggs look unappealing to some people and it makes them not want to eat them. Brussel sprouts are actually good! For all the picky eaters reading this: BEWARE of media. They can be misleading about food choices. Do not fall into the trap or you will miss a world of delicious tastes around you. The media gives you the wrong idea about food and makes you love sugary stuff that should not be eaten a lot. We follow TV stars like role models even though they are acting. The actors may even be the opposite of a picky eater, but do it for the sake of acting. Just remember, taste it to believe it.

I am now done my lecture but I will tell you that I was always pretty good at eating from a while. But every year I grow more open to other foods and man, was I missing out. I hope my younger sister can learn from me. She has always been fussy and picky about food. She is one of those people that eat with her eyes. It will take time, but hopefully she will realize what she has been missing. Making such a fuss over food, makes no sense. At least you have food at your table that will not disappear. Some people would trade their lives to have what you think looks disgusting. Be thankful. Try to remember that next time you eat unwanted meal.

Here are six tips for parents with picky children that I proudly came up with myself:

  • Try to be understanding
  • Listen to the kids likes and dislikes. Make a list of them. If they are picky, they will have a lot of dislikes.
  • Do not force them but still be strict.
  • Maybe do something special if they eat without hesitation.
  • Cook something on there “likes” list once in a while.
  • Be creative while introducing new foods.

That is all I have but you can find more tips if you search it up. I would like to end by stating that PICKY EATING HABITS should be eliminated. Help stop this nonsense. OOPS, I got to go have dinner. Yummy broccoli!!!!

Maxine Mutasingwa