Snacking Patterns and Nutrient Density of Snacks Consumed by Southern Girls

Abstract We obtained information on the snacking patterns and nutrient contributions that snacks made to the total diet of 1224 adolescent girls living in eight southern states. We examined the data according to age (12-, 14-, and 16-year-old girls), race (black and white), and family per capita income (low, middle, and high). Snacking was common, with afternoon snacking at home occurring more frequently than snacking at other times or places regardless of race, age, or income group. Snack nutrient densities (amounts of nutrients per 1000 kcal) were generally lower than those of meals, but snacks contributed 52%, 43%, and 39% of the respective Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for riboflavin, vitamin C, and thiamin and notable amounts of other vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. The nutrients that snacks provided in the lowest amounts relative to RDA were folacin (8%), vitamin D (9%), zinc (10%), and iron (11%).