Positive Maternal Feeding Practices in Early Childhood are Associated With Higher Food and Nutrition Literacy in Later Childhood.

BACKGROUND

Food and nutrition literacy (FNLIT) is a set of skills and knowledge that empowers individuals to make informed food choices for better health. However, data on multiethnic Asian children are limited.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to characterize FNLIT among children aged 11 y and examine associations with maternal feeding practices during early childhood.

METHODS

FNLIT levels in 11-y-old children in the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes cohort study were assessed using a self-administered modified FNLIT questionnaire. Scores ranging from 1 to 100 were categorized into tertiles. Maternal feeding practices at age 5 y and sociodemographic data were ascertained through interviews. Adjusted multinomial logistic regression examined associations with high, moderate, and low total FNLIT levels, along with cognitive and skill domains.

RESULTS

The healthy food environment {relative risk ratio [RRR] = 1.62 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09-2.40]} and teaching about nutrition [RRR = 2.07 (95% CI: 1.34-3.20)] practices were associated with a higher likelihood of total high FNLIT compared with total low FNLIT. "Giving child greater control" was associated with a lower likelihood of moderate [RRR = 0.58 (95% CI: 0.38, 0.90)] and high [RRR = 0.46 (95% CI: 0.30, 0.73)] FNLIT. Restriction for weight control, restriction for health, and pressure to eat were not associated with total FNLIT but showed domain-specific associations with cognitive FNLIT.

CONCLUSIONS

Positive feeding practices in early childhood, such as environment and teaching about nutrition, are associated with higher FNLIT. Promoting these practices may enhance FNLIT of older children and support healthier dietary behaviors into adulthood.