Food neophobia among preschool children in Kuantan, Pahang

Background: Food neophobia, the reluctance to try unfamiliar foods, is common in young children and has been linked to unhealthy dietary habits, including low fiber intake and preference for energy-dense foods. In Malaysia, evidence on food neophobia among preschool-aged children remains limited, despite persistent concerns about child malnutrition, particularly stunting. This study aimed to assess food neophobia, dietary patterns, and their associations with sociodemographic and nutritional factors among preschool children in Kuantan, Pahang. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 44 children aged 4–6 years and their caregivers. Data were obtained through caregiver-administered, face-to-face questionnaires comprising the Child Food Neophobia Scale (CFNS), a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and sociodemographic information. Children’s anthropometric measurements were collected to assess their nutritional status. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests with SPSS version 20. Results: In this study, children were categorized into low (25.0%), moderate (52.3%), and high (22.7%) food neophobia. The highest dietary intake was for beverages and cereal products, while the lowest was for nuts and bread spreads. Their nutritional status showed 6.8% underweight, 22.7% stunted, and 6.8% wasted. No significant associations were found between food neophobia and nutritional status or most sociodemographic variables. Conclusion: Although no significant associations were found, the presence of stunting and wasting underscores the importance of promoting dietary variety from early childhood. Early dietary interventions and active caregiver engagement are essential to improve food acceptance and support optimal growth and health among preschool-aged children.