The 12-14 group demonstrates eating patterns that are more “teen-like” (i.e., less fruit, more chips and candy, eating more with friends). Those 11 and younger, however, primarily are influenced by what their parents want them to eat. As a result, the under-12 demographic consumes a wider range of foods. While they still eat sweets and salty snacks, they also have a much greater incidence of healthful food consumption.
Another distinction can be made between 15- to 17-year-olds and younger teens. More mobile and with a considerably larger spending ability, the older group also is influenced more by their friends than their parents. They eat a significant amount of salty snacks and sweets, but less so than the 12- to 14-year-olds. Older teens tend to have more-varied diets, however.