Feeding kids can be a daily battle. Instagram makes it look easy

adelaide: (the conversation) feeding children is often messy and stressful, but instagram paints a very different picture, according to new research.researchers analysed top instagram posts under hashtags like #familymeals and #familydinner over 14 weeks. most posts showed polished kitchens, beautifully plated food, and “easy” recipes, rather than realistic family mealtimes.healthy foods featured often, though #familybreakfast had the most unhealthy options like pancakes and fry-ups. posts rarely showed chaos—toddlers clinging to parents, spilled sauce, or noisy meals. men and fathers were largely absent, reinforcing outdated gender roles, the study found.experts warn that curated content may add pressure and guilt for parents. “instagram favours picture-perfect posts. real family life is messy,” the authors said.they urge parents not to compare themselves to social media images, noting healthy meals need not be complicated. sharing authentic, everyday meals—and involving dads—could normalize real-life mealtime experiences.