Hiding Veggies: When It Helps and When It Hurts

There’s a special kind of exhaustion that comes with picky eating. The rejected plates, the mealtime struggles, and the endless search for new ways to make kids eat their veggies. It’s no wonder that many parents decide to “hide” vegetables in foods. It feels like a win-win, but it might not always help kids develop a positive relationship with vegetables in the long run.

The Case Against Hiding Veggies

For children to accept vegetables as a normal and essential part of meals, they need to see and experience them directly — the colours, the textures, and even the earthy flavours. Kids miss the chance to become familiar with them. They don’t learn how to recognize, touch, or taste them confidently. Sometimes, blending vegetables into a dish can be a great way to boost nutrition and that’s totally okay.

A Better Approach

Instead of hiding veggies completely, try combining both approaches:

• Serve whole veggies alongside meals. Even if they don’t eat them yet, exposure is the first step to acceptance.
• Keep it low-pressure. Let them explore at their own pace.
• Mix and match. Add blended veggies into meals sometimes, but also serve them in their natural form regularly.

Final Thoughts

Hiding veggies can be a helpful trick, but it shouldn’t be your only strategy. Kids need time and positive exposure to learn that vegetables belong on their plates.

At Plate & Play, our meals are thoughtfully designed to introduce a variety of flavours and textures naturally — helping little ones grow comfortable with different foods, including veggies. You’re doing great, momma! You’re helping your little one build healthy habits one bite at a time. 💚