Burger and chip-guzzling teens are prepared to switch to healthier alternatives if they are handed to them on a plate, researchers say.

A study of 2000 UK secondary schools, by the American Peanut Council and the California Prune Board, found two thirds of pupils readily opted for fatty snacks and would not buy healthy foods such as dried fruit, peanuts and seeds, if they were the only snacks on sale.

But, their attitudes changed once the snacks were introduced. After tasting sessions, 95 per cent of pupils said they would buy these snacks at school and 84 per cent would also recommend these snacks to their friends.

The research team said its findings provide great support and justification for the government's new School Food Standards, which aim to radically change the policy on foods allowed to be sold in schools.

“These results suggest that the new School Food Standards are pushing on a door that's already opening,” said Jennette Higgs, consultant public health nutritionist. “It is really encouraging that these taste tests have been positively received by teenagers. With the new governmental regulations in place, teenagers now have a chance to experience and enjoy health snacking options in school. Body conscious girls especially need to be aware that nutritious, natural snacks, like dried fruit and peanuts, can be incorporated into their diet, without compromising their weight and looks.”

The study found cultural background had a major influence on teenagers’ snacking habits, with children of a Middle Eastern or Afro-Caribbean heritage more likely to eat these foods, as they are already eaten at home.

Joe Harvey, director for the Health Education Trust said: “Overall, the research undertaken confirmed that the government's stance towards snacks in schools is right…By September 2007 at the latest, snacks such as chocolates and crisps will no longer be available during school time. It is important to ensure that the healthy snacks on offer are tasty and offered at the right price.”

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