Summary
This randomized controlled trial demonstrates that flavors experienced by infants prenatally via amniotic fluid or postnatally through breast milk influence their subsequent acceptance of similarly flavored solid foods at weaning. Infants exposed to carrot flavor through maternal consumption during pregnancy and/or lactation exhibited fewer negative facial expressions and higher perceived enjoyment when consuming carrot-flavored cereal compared with unexposed controls, suggesting that early flavor exposure establishes preferences that may underpin culturally and ethnically distinct dietary patterns.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in the United States and provides mechanistic evidence applicable to UK and other Western maternal and infant feeding contexts. The findings are relevant to UK infant nutrition guidance and weaning practices, particularly regarding the timing and diversity of flavor exposure to promote acceptance of vegetables and diverse foods.
Key measures
Infant facial expressions (negative expressions), maternal ratings of infant enjoyment (9-point scale), cereal consumption amount, feed duration
Outcomes reported
The study measured infant facial expressions, maternal perception of enjoyment on a 9-point scale, cereal consumption amount, and feed duration when infants were exposed to carrot-flavored versus plain cereal. Infants with prior exposure to carrot flavor in amniotic fluid or breast milk showed fewer negative facial expressions and greater perceived enjoyment of carrot-flavored cereal compared to unexposed controls.
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