The development of meat-eating habits during childhood in Australia

The development of meat-eating habits of 999 Australian children between 1 and 16 years of age stratified across socioeconomic groups, was determined using a 4-day diary and measurement procedures to document intake. The resu lts indicated that a stable pattern of meat-eating behaviour, as regards th e frequency and type of meal eaten was established during the period 1-4 ye ars of age and remained until 10-12 years for males and until at least 14-1 6 years for females. In contrast, the amount of meat consumed increased wit h age, the greatest increases occurring with adolescent males who ate the l argest amounts of beef, chicken and pork. It is suggested that the early es tablishment of meat-eating habits may reflect a more general effect that ma y occur with other types of food.