#Japan #Tokyo #Kintaro #Meiji Step #Nutrition Survey

A Comprehensive Survey on Toddler Nutrition

On April 8, 2025, Meiji Co., Ltd., under the leadership of CEO Katsuya Matsuda, hosted a seminar aimed at parents of toddlers aged 1 to 3 years. Titled "Guide to Carefree Happy Parenting," this event focused on toddler nutrition and the realities of family meals. Nineteen mothers participated, sharing their experiences and challenges in raising young children.

Among the participants was Kintaro, a notable representative of busy modern mothers and a mother of two, who candidly discussed her own food-related worries and strategies for her children.

Understanding Current Parenting Challenges

Before the event, Meiji conducted a comprehensive study to understand the dietary habits and nutritional status of toddlers, as well as the aspirations and concerns parents have regarding child-rearing. One hundred and seven mothers of children aged between 1 and 3 submitted logs of their families’ meals to the AI meal management app 'Asuken,' allowing researchers to analyze approximately 2000 meals over a week. Nutritional data were then calculated based on these entries, including pictures of the meals for a more accurate assessment of real-life scenarios.

The nutrition deemed essential for children in this age group includes iron, calcium, and vitamins C and D, which aid in the absorption of these minerals. The study revealed significant discrepancies between those consuming adequate nutrition and those who were not. On average, the latter group had about four fewer meal items per day compared to the former, with data showing that they consumed an average of 0.6 snack items compared to 1.4 from the group that had adequate nutrition.

Mikiko Michieko, a registered dietitian and director at Asuken, shared her insights at the event. She emphasized the importance of not only monitoring toddler nutrition but also ensuring mothers themselves maintain a healthy diet. “We recommend having well-rounded meals with staple foods, main dishes, and side dishes, but achieving this can be challenging. Simple solutions like adding vegetables to soups or combining meat with vegetables in stews can help ease this process. It’s essential to promote a no-stress approach to parenting,” she advised.

Supporting Busy Parents with Follow-Up Milk

The investigation also included a survey on parental attitudes towards childcare. Many parents expressed concerns over not having time for themselves, alongside worries about their children's nutrition and growth. Kintaro, a mother of a 3- and 5-year-old, shared her personal experience with 'Meiji Step' follow-up milk. She discovered it while shopping and recognized it as a well-balanced nutritional solution necessary for her children’s growth.

“My anxiety about whether my kids are getting sufficient nutrition eased after incorporating 'Meiji Step' into their routine. It’s a lifesaver for me and gives me peace of mind knowing they are getting what they need,” she expressed.

In her heartfelt message to fellow parents, Kintaro shared, “I too am navigating the challenges of motherhood. Participating in this event, I hoped to provide helpful tips to others. I love using 'Meiji Step' myself; it not only supports my children’s nutritional needs but can be used in cooking as well. It feels like a treasured protective charm for me—truly a 'godsend'!”

Voices from Event Participants

• - “I now understand the power of integrating follow-up milk into our routine! I’m thinking about trying it in curry starting tomorrow.”
• - “It’s reassuring to see data confirming that our children aren’t getting enough nutrients from meals alone. Though we've graduated from milk, I would consider reintroducing it in some recipes.”
• - “The carrot ramen sounds delicious, and I can’t wait to try it out! I love sweet flavors, and combining ginger pork with noodles sounds like a great idea.”
• - “Mixing 'Meiji Step' with bananas to create ice pops sounds fantastic for the coming season. I’m eager to start experimenting!”

Event Highlights

Images from the event convey the engaging atmosphere as parents exchanged ideas and consulted experts on dietary practices.

About Meiji Step

'’Meiji Step' is a follow-up milk designed to support the often insufficient nutrition needs of toddlers aged 1 to 3 years. From March 31, 2025, the new liquid milk variant 'Meiji Step Rakuraku Milk' (120ml) will be available, making daily nutrition even more accessible.

Products include: 'Meiji Step' (800g), 'Meiji Step Rakuraku Cube' (560g), and 'Meiji Step Rakuraku Milk' (200ml and 120ml).