Kids' cookie hits health niche

BakeMark's new Apricot and Raisin cookie is free from artificial colours and flavours, low in sodium and contains more than 20 per cent fruit. The cookie's launch coincides with a drive to promote healthier eating in the UK. Last week the Food Standards Agency (FSA) introduced its three-month consultation plan on how to reduce saturated fats in the diet and praised work already done by manufacturers reformulating brands to contain less salt, sugar and fat. And today in the UK, another weapon in the fight against childhood obesity is unveiled as restrictions on TV advertising to children take effect. Under the new regulations, manufacturers wishing to advertise their products must assess them according to a nutrient profiling system. BakeMark reduced the saturated fat content of its apricot and raisin cookie by 53 per cent, compared to a milk chocolate variety and claims the product adheres to the FSA target of 250mg of sodium per 100g in cakes. In addition, the product contains 75 per cent more fibre than generic cookies and has 23 per cent less calories. The snack is designed to entice children into eating more healthily and provide an alternative to the standard high-fat products. BakeMark's head of foodservice Peter Julian said: "As much as parents would like their children not to snack between meals, it is difficult to control what they eat during school hours. And our research confirms that children would be happy to eat healthier treats, provided they taste good.​