US-based Solgar Vitamin and Herb company has announced the introduction of a new range of supplements for children in the UK called Kangavites. The minerals in the supplements have been specially coated in order to disguise the normally unpleasant taste which can put some children off.
The Kangavite range includes Natural Bouncing Berry Multivitamins and Minerals, Natural Orange Flavoured vitamin C 100mg and soon Natural Tropical Punch Multivitamins and Minerals.
The supplements are described as chewable, pleasant tasting and do not contain any artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, said the company. The products have been naturally sweetened with fructose and flavoured from real strawberries, apricots, citrus fruits and other whole food concentrates.
The multivitamin and mineral products are available in bottles of 60 and 120 tablets while the vitamin C product comes in a bottle of 90 tablets. All bottles are childproof and recyclable.
Some research has shown that due to the prevalence of processed foods, children's picky eating and nutrient deficient produce coming from depleted soils, it has become commonplace for some children not to reach the recommended daily levels of key vitamins.
Although supplementation can help bridge the gaps, Solgar's technical manager Paul Chamberlain said the company is also aiming to advise parents on ways to provide children with the required vitamins in natural form. During the launch a booklet entitled, 'Does your child need supplements', will be given away with information on what children should be eating, why they may need a multivitamin and tips and recipes to encourage children to eat more fruit and vegetables.