Contrary to what parents think - and despite the best efforts of advertising executives - children know what food is good for them, new research finds.

Although barely three in 10 parents believe that their children know how to eat healthily, eight out of 10 children are aware that they should eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

But the study of 2,000 children, parents and playworkers shows children's diets are governed largely by parental income.

The survey was carried out by children's charity the Kids' Clubs Network and the Sainsbury's supermarket chain.

- Food for Thought is available from 020 7512 2112