Supporting Fussy Eaters: Why Our Focus Is on Children’s Health

Fussy eating isn't always about taste — it's often about unfamiliarity. That’s why we created characters like Kerry Cherri: to make healthy food feel friendly, fun, and less intimidating for little minds.

Supporting Fussy Eaters: Why Our Focus Is on Children’s Health

Fussy eating isn't just a phase — for many children and families, it's a daily struggle that impacts nutrition, energy levels, learning, and even mental health. At Mish Mash Publications Ltd, we’ve chosen to centre much of our work around supporting children and “selective eaters” because we understand how important these early habits are — not just for physical development, but for confidence and curiosity too. This blog is for parents, schools, early years providers, and healthcare professionals. It’s not a pitch. It’s an introduction to what drives our mission and why creativity and credibility go hand in hand when helping children develop healthy relationships with food.

The Importance of Addressing Fussy Eating

Supporting Fussy Eaters: Why Our Focus Is on Children’s Health, eating can have significant consequences. It affects not only a child's physical health but also their emotional well-being. Children who struggle with food may miss out on essential nutrients. This can lead to fatigue, lack of focus, and even behavioural issues.

Understanding the Roots of Fussy Eating

Fussy eating often stems from various factors. These can include sensory sensitivities, previous negative experiences with food, or simply a desire for control. Understanding these roots is crucial for parents and caregivers. It allows them to approach the issue with empathy and patience.

Using Creativity to Connect

Our in-house artist, Caleb, is the creative mind behind the Fruity Snack Pack Club, a growing lineup of friendly characters like Ollie Orange, DJ Brocco Power, and Ben-nana. These playful figures aren’t just fun — they’re tools. Each one is designed to spark curiosity about fruit, veg, and healthy eating in ways that feel safe and relatable for kids.

Caleb is currently sharing the behind-the-scenes creative process over on TikTok, where families can watch the characters come to life — hand-drawn from scratch. It’s been heartwarming to see how children respond to seeing food represented in a non-pressurised, playful way.

And yes, we’ve started turning these characters into merchandise to support the project long-term. From mugs to t-shirts, everything is designed with joy and inclusivity in mind. You can view the full collection on our website.

Why Education Needs More Than Just Facts

We’re passionate about combining fun with function — but we’re also serious about credibility. We use well-established public health data to support everything we share, and our materials are rooted in nutritional science. Our goal isn’t to replace clinical advice — it’s to complement it in a way that’s accessible for families.

In 2024, the UK Government renewed efforts to reduce childhood obesity, with schools and early years settings playing a key role. Initiatives like the Better Health Campaign by the NHS highlight the importance of positive role modelling and accessible resources — two things we care deeply about.

Meanwhile, the Department for Education has been working to update school food standards and ensure that children across all settings are getting access to the nutrition they need. These changes signal a shift: it’s not just about calories anymore — it’s about conversation, inclusion, and making food a topic children want to engage with.

Building a Supportive Community

At Mish Mash, we’re building a community that blends art, research, and real-world need. Whether it's a teacher downloading resources for their classroom, a parent looking for practical support, or a young child finding joy in a broccoli superhero — we’re here for it.

We believe that fussy eating doesn’t have to be a fight. With the right tools, it can be a gateway to connection. Our aim is to empower families with knowledge and resources that make mealtime enjoyable rather than stressful.

The Role of Parents and Caregivers

Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in shaping a child's relationship with food. It’s important to create a positive mealtime environment. Encourage children to explore new foods without pressure. This can help them develop a more adventurous palate over time.

Encouraging Healthy Habits Early On

Introducing a variety of foods early on can set the stage for healthier eating habits later in life. Encourage children to participate in meal preparation. This involvement can spark interest in different foods and make them more likely to try new things.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to read this. We hope you find our insights helpful in navigating the challenges of fussy eating. Remember, fostering a healthy relationship with food is a journey. With creativity, support, and understanding, we can make it a positive experience for children.

Warm regards,

Nin Sidhu

Founder & CEO, Mish Mash Publications Ltd