Glossary · Behavior

Food neophobia

The reluctance to try unfamiliar foods. It peaks between ages 2 and 6 and is evolutionarily protective. Repeated, low-pressure exposure is the most evidence-backed way to expand a child's food range — not coercion or hiding foods.

Related terms

Picky eater
Food jag
Repeated exposure
Division of responsibility
Choking hazard (food)
Responsive feeding

Miriel uses this concept across food scans, meal plans, and AI Coach responses where it is relevant to a child's profile. For the underlying clinical and scientific basis, see the research page.