Last week’s revelation that the college staged classroom tastings of crisps, milkshakes and burgers in primary schools suggests that the boffins may not be the brightest citizens in the fast-food nation, however.
They argued the foodstuffs had reduced fat and salt, parental consent forms were issued “in most cases”, and only a small quantity of the product was presented.
Depending on the exercise involved, a child might be asked to smell or taste the food, or to comment on its appearance.
Smells like a burger, tastes like a burger, looks like a burger? Careful, kids.
Given public concerns about childhood obesity and the commercialisation of education, the DIT was courting trouble on several fronts by agreeing to become involved in this exercise.
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Most parents would be appalled at the prospect of their kids being turned into guinea pigs, much less pot-bellied pigs.
Good R&D is a balanced blend of science and technology. It also requires a dollop of common sense.