Last Updated on January 31, 2026 | Published: January 31, 2026 published by Jenny Tomei

What is the definition of fussy eating?

Picky eating (also known as fussy eating, faddy or choosy eating) is usually classified as part of a spectrum of feeding difficulties. It is characterised by an unwillingness to eat familiar foods or to try new foods, as well as strong food preferences.

In scientific research, fussy eating (also called picky, faddy or choosy eating) is defined by:

strong preferences for certain foods
unwillingness to eat familiar foods
reluctance to try new foods
limited dietary variety

This behaviour is typically seen in early childhood but can vary greatly in how long it lasts and how intense it is.

One challenge researchers face is that there isn’t a single agreed definition of picky eating, which means it’s measured in different ways across studies.

How Common Is fussy eating?

Estimated rates of fussy eating vary widely partly because of differing definitions and assessment methods in research. Scientists use tools like the Children’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaire to capture food fussiness, but results still differ depending on how picky eating is measured.

Despite this, it’s clear from research that many children show some degree of fussines and in most cases, this is part of normal development.

What Causes Fussy Eating?

Fussy eating doesn’t have a single cause. Research points to a mix of intrinsic factors (parts of the child’s personality or sensory preferences) and environmental influences (family mealtimes, feeding practices).

Intrinsic Factors

These are aspects of the child’s own characteristics, such as:

sensory sensitivity (heightened reaction to texture, smell, taste)
temperament traits like rigidity or resistance to change

Such traits make some children naturally more cautious around food.

Environmental Influences

Parenting styles, mealtime environments, and family eating habits also play a role. Certain approaches can unintentionally strengthen picky eating, including:

pressure to eat
using rewards or punishments for food
frequent alternatives offered when a child refuses

Conversely, factors that appear to reduce picky eating include:

✔ eating meals together as a family
✔ responsive (not forceful) feeding
✔ involving children in food preparation
✔ repeated, neutral exposure to new foods

These features create a positive context around eating that supports broader food acceptance.

Do Genetics Matter?

Emerging research suggests that genetics can also influence fussy eating tendencies. Twin studies show a significant genetic contribution to variations in childhood eating behaviour, indicating that some aspects of fussy eating may be inherited, rather than caused by parenting alone.

This doesn’t mean parents have no influence far from it, but it can help relieve guilt by acknowledging that feeding behaviour is partly shaped by a child’s unique biology.

Potential Effects on Diet

While fussy eating is common, a restricted diet can reduce variety and may lead to low intakes of certain nutrients (like fiber, iron or zinc) if not balanced carefully over time.

This doesn’t automatically mean a child’s growth or health will be affected many children catch up later, and most cases improve with age, but it’s something to be aware of if diet becomes very narrow or if the child isn’t gaining weight as expected.

How do you help a child who is an extremely fussy eater?

Research suggests that the following approaches can help families navigate fussy eating more positively:

Eat Together

Family meals encourage modelling of varied eating and build familiarity with different foods.

Avoid Pressure

Forcing, coaxing repeatedly, or creating a stressful atmosphere around food can make fussiness worse.

Involve Children

Letting kids help with shopping, prepping or serving creates curiosity and ownership.

Offer Variety Without Force

Consistent, neutral exposure to a range of foods helps build familiarity over time.

Keep Mealtimes Positive

A relaxed, pressure-free environment supports children’s confidence and reduces anxiety around food.

When to Seek More Support

For most children, fussy eating is a developmentally normal phase that improves as they grow and become more familiar with foods. However, it may be helpful to seek professional advice if:

the child’s weight gain or growth is affected
dietary variety is extremely limited
mealtimes are consistently stressful or conflict-filled
the child avoids eating in social settings
If you suspect ARFID (Avoidtant restrictive food intake disorder), contact your local GP for a referral to an ARFID specialist or clinic within your area.

In these cases, guidance from a dietitian, health visitor, or paediatric clinician can help identify ways to support healthy eating patterns without pressure.

Useful links:

FREE resources on eating disorders and disordered eating for schools and parents: