We all love a treat, and chocolates and lollies bring pleasure by tantalising our taste buds. Confectionery is a fun part of our lives. It is also a food to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Of course Australian and New Zealand confectionery makers want you to enjoy chocolate and lollies and any other treats you like.

But we suggest being treatwise and consuming in moderation and in balance so you can enjoy a healthy life.

The role of treat foods

It has been long recognised that good nutrition is very important in the growth and development of children, both physically and mentally, and for the well-being of adults. This is reflected in the dietary guidelines that promote healthy eating. Children and adults may enjoy a treat – such as lollies or chocolate – now and then, as those foods increase the pleasure of daily eating.

Of course, balanced eating means that treat foods are to be eaten occasionally, while other foods like fruit, vegetable and grainy foods are to be eaten each day.

 
   
 
 

Did you know, the size of your treat matters?

The 'Australian Guide to Healthy Eating' (Commonwealth of Australia 1998) suggests typical serving sizes for treats as being:

  1. 4 plain sweet biscuits
  2. 40 g cake
  3. 25 g chocolate
  4. 30 g potato crisps
  5. 12 hot chips
  6. 50 g jelly beans, jelly snakes

Some argue that using treat foods as a reward for good behaviour or making a large fuss about treat foods, may actually increase children's desire for them. They are foods to be enjoyed in sensible amounts. A small treat can be enjoyed by all.

 
   
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