REAL FOOD BLOG
Explore the latest product breakdowns, food label red flags, and clean eating tips — straight from Mandy Sacher and the Real Food Rating team.
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Kids and Protein Powders: What Every Parent Needs to Know
As a paediatric nutritionist, I’m often asked whether protein powders are a good idea for kids. With so many options on the market and clever marketing claiming to support growth, development, and active lifestyles, it’s easy for parents to feel overwhelmed. However, not all protein powders are created equal, and some may do more harm…
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Healthy Snack or Sugar Overload: Navigating Dried Fruit for Kids
As a wholefood nutritionist, one of the most common questions I get from parents is about dried fruit. Dried fruit can seem like a quick, healthy snack option—it’s sweet, convenient, and often comes in kid-friendly packaging. But like many foods, the story is a little more complex. Let’s explore the benefits, concerns, practical tips and…
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5 Tips to Avoid Deceptive Marketing Tactics Making Your Kids Crave Junk Food
Today’s food marketing is everywhere, targeting even our youngest kids with bright packaging, social media influencers, games, and their favourite cartoon characters. For Aussie parents dedicated to raising healthy eaters, it’s overwhelming to sift through “kid-friendly” foods that are often ultra-processed and packed with sugar, salt, and artificial additives. These marketing tactics actively work against…
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Summer Cool Downs: Rating Your Kids’ Favourite Frozen Popsicles
As the summer sun heats up, kids all around Australia are reaching for their favourite ice blocks to cool down. But while these colourful treats might look refreshing, not all ice blocks are created equal. Some are packed with artificial colours, flavours, and additives that could impact your child’s health and behaviour. In this guide,…
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Toxic Treats in Disguise: How Zooper Doopers Earned a 3-Star Health Rating Despite Cancer Concerns
As a leading paediatric nutritionist and mother of two, I am outraged by the blatant flaws in Australia’s Health Star Rating system. How is it possible that a product like Zooper Dooper, which contains an ingredient banned in the US for its links to cancer, can still earn a 3-star rating? As parents, we’re constantly…
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Why Parents Can’t Trust Products with the Health Star Rating – and What To Choose Instead!
The Health Star Rating is designed to help busy parents make healthy choices—but it’s actually doing the opposite! As a parent, navigating the overwhelming world of children’s food products can be a daunting task. Supermarkets are packed with brightly coloured boxes, clever marketing, and labels designed to give us peace of mind. Yet, despite our…
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How to Read Nutrition Labels Like a Pro: A Parent’s Guide!
Navigating the supermarket aisles can be overwhelming for a parent, especially when you’re trying to choose healthy options for your family. Food packaging is filled with marketing claims like “low-fat,” “sugar-free,” or “low-carb,” but these often don’t reflect a product’s true nutritional quality. Learning to read food labels is the best way to empower parents…
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Peanut Butter: Why Kids Love It & What to Watch Out For!
Peanut butter is a staple in many households, especially for families with young children. It’s creamy, delicious, and versatile—perfect for sandwiches, smoothies, and even straight off the spoon! But as parents, it’s essential to know exactly what’s in that jar and how to choose the healthiest options for your children. This information is not just…
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How to Choose the Best Lunchbox Wraps for Your Kids!
Wraps are a go-to for quick, easy meals — perfect for everything from lunchbox snacks to family dinners. But be cautious: many store-bought options are packed with additives and unhealthy ingredients that aren’t suitable for everyday consumption, especially for kids. Selecting the right wrap can significantly impact your family’s nutrition. Let’s explore what to look…