This healthy snack choice is actually causing a big problem.

Many parents think sultanas, raisins and other dried fruits are a good option because they’re packed with vitamins. But in fact the concentrated sugar content in dried fruit is extremely detrimental to a child’s teeth, reports The Mirror.

A small packet of raisins has around 8 teaspoons worth of sugar in.

According to the NHS , the recommended daily sugar allowance for children aged four to six years-old is no more than five sugar cubes. For children aged seven to ten, it is no more than six.

The reason dried fruit poses a particular danger is also because of its consistency.

“Raisins are sticky, and get stuck in teeth. Therefore the bacteria has a prolonged source of sugar, so it can cause decay for a longer period of time.”

However, given their nutritional value, this does not mean they should be avoided altogether.

“It’s better to give your child raisins as a dessert or part of a meal rather than a snack.

“Sugar as part of a meal is not detrimental to the teeth, so saving sweet treats for mealtimes doesn’t cause decay.

“However frequent snacking of sweet foods and drinks between meals causes the mouth to remain in an acidic state – which is ideal for decay to occur.”

Some of the bacteria in our mouths feed on the sugar present in our diets, producing acid.

Earlier this year parents shared their confusion after one mum was told sultanas was not an acceptable lunch box snack, despite what the note actually advises. Read more on that HERE.

A Melbourne vented on Facebook after her daughter’s greek yoghurt and vegemite biscuit snacks were deemed unhealthy according to her kindergarten’s policy. Read that HERE.

The best snack?

Cheese!

It neutralises the acid in the mouth and prevents tooth decay. Any savoury snack is in fact a good alternative – like bread sticks.

The Right Bite and healthy eating policy classifies food and drink into three categories according to their nutritional or ‘healthy eating’ value.

Oh my youngest always loved his sultanas! May explain some of his teeth issues. DOH!

Do your kids love dried fruit?

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