Chippie Choc Cookies

BRIEF TECHNOLOGY

The invention is a formulation for a delicious chocolate chip cookie that is high in fibre (15.8gram per 100gram) suitable for all kids. It was created as an alternative food product to increase fibre intake among children and help picky eaters, mainly children with ASD. It was reported that children in Malaysia consumed less than half of the fibre recommendation (Chong et al., 2017). In addition, the gluten-free ingredients are also suitable for families that opt for gluten-free products. It hopes to solve the constipation problem. Additional criteria of sugar free and gluten free were also developed for individuals with diabetes mellitus problems as well as those who practice a healthy diet.

INSPIRATION OF THE INVENTION

The inspiration for this invention stems from the need to improve children’s fibre intake, particularly in Malaysia, where fibre consumption is alarmingly low. Recognizing the challenges faced by picky eaters, especially children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the goal was to create a tasty, nutritious alternative that would appeal to them. Additionally, the inclusion of gluten-free and sugar-free options reflects a commitment to inclusivity, catering to families with dietary restrictions, including those managing diabetes. This cookie aims to make healthy eating accessible and enjoyable for all children.

PROBLEM STATEMENT & CURRENT ISSUES

  • Low Fibre Intake Among Children: Studies in Malaysia have shown that children consume less than half of the recommended daily fibre intake (Chong et al., 2017). This deficiency is linked to digestive issues, including constipation, which is a common problem among children.
  • Picky Eating, Especially Among Children with ASD: Many children, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), are picky eaters, making it challenging for parents to ensure they receive adequate nutrition, including sufficient fibre.
  • Limited Gluten-Free and Sugar-Free Options: Families seeking gluten-free or sugar-free products often find it difficult to find tasty and nutritious snacks that meet their dietary needs. This is particularly important for individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, diabetes, or those following a health-conscious diet.
  • Health Risks Associated with Poor Diets: A lack of dietary fibre, along with high sugar consumption, contributes to various health issues, including constipation, obesity, and diabetes, especially in children who are still developing their eating habits.

 

INVENTIVENESS  & NOVELTY

  • Dual-Targeted Nutritional Solution: The invention uniquely combines high fibre content with gluten-free and sugar-free formulations, addressing multiple dietary needs in one product. This dual-targeted approach is uncommon in children’s snacks, offering a versatile solution for various health concerns.
  • Appeal to Picky Eaters, Including Those with ASD: The cookie is specifically designed to be appealing to picky eaters, particularly children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This focus on sensory-friendly taste and texture is a novel approach in the development of health-focused snacks, making it easier for parents to introduce necessary nutrients into their children’s diets.
  • Combination of Health and Taste: Unlike many health-oriented snacks that sacrifice taste for nutrition, this cookie is crafted to deliver both. The invention challenges the typical trade-off between taste and health, creating a product that children will enjoy while meeting strict dietary requirements.
  • Addressing Multiple Health Issues in One Product: By targeting low fibre intake, gluten sensitivity, and the need for sugar-free options in a single cookie, this invention stands out as a comprehensive, multi-functional food product. It simplifies meal planning for families dealing with various dietary restrictions and health concerns.
  • Innovative Market Offering: The cookie introduces a novel product to the market by filling a gap where there is a lack of appealing, high-fibre, gluten-free, and sugar-free snacks for children. This combination of benefits in one product is not widely available, positioning it as an innovative choice in the health food market.

USEFULNESS & APPLICATION

  • Improving Children’s Fibre Intake: The cookie serves as a practical solution to the widespread issue of low fibre intake among children, particularly in regions like Malaysia. By providing a tasty and appealing snack, it encourages children to consume more fibre, which is crucial for their digestive health and overall well-being.
  • Supporting Special Dietary Needs: This cookie is particularly useful for families with specific dietary restrictions, such as gluten intolerance, celiac disease, and diabetes. Its gluten-free and sugar-free formulations make it a versatile snack option for those managing these conditions, ensuring that children with special needs can enjoy a safe and delicious treat.
  • Enhancing Dietary Choices for Picky Eaters: The product is designed to be appealing to picky eaters, especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), who may have sensory sensitivities. It offers parents a reliable way to incorporate essential nutrients into their children’s diets without the usual resistance associated with healthy foods.
  • Convenient, Healthy Snacking: As a portable and shelf-stable product, the cookie offers a convenient snacking option for parents and children on the go. It’s an easy way to provide a nutritious snack that doesn’t compromise on taste or dietary requirements, making it suitable for school lunches, travel, or anytime snacking.
  • Promoting Healthy Eating Habits: By providing a nutritious and enjoyable snack, the cookie helps to instill healthy eating habits in children from a young age. It can serve as a gateway to introducing other healthy foods, helping children develop a taste for nutritious options that support long-term health.
  • Overall, this invention is a valuable addition to the food market, offering a practical, delicious, and health-conscious snack that meets the diverse needs of modern families.

IMPACT OF THE PRODUCT

  • Improved Public Health Among Children: By addressing the issue of low fibre intake, this product has the potential to significantly improve digestive health among children, reducing the prevalence of constipation and other related conditions. This can lead to better overall health outcomes and quality of life for children.
  • Support for Special Needs Communities: The product provides a much-needed dietary solution for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), gluten intolerance, celiac disease, and diabetes. By catering to these specific needs, it supports inclusivity and ensures that children with dietary restrictions can enjoy the same tasty and nutritious snacks as their peers.
  • Increased Awareness of Dietary Health: The introduction of this cookie to the market can raise awareness among parents and caregivers about the importance of fibre intake and the availability of gluten-free and sugar-free options. This can drive more informed dietary choices, leading to healthier eating habits in households.
  • Market Influence on Healthy Snacks: As a novel product, this cookie has the potential to influence the snack food industry, encouraging other manufacturers to develop similar health-focused products. This can lead to a broader range of healthy, appealing snack options for children, promoting better nutrition on a larger scale.
  • Reduction in Health Disparities: By offering a product that is accessible and beneficial to children with diverse dietary needs, this invention can help reduce health disparities among children, particularly those from communities where access to specialized foods is limited.
  • Overall, this product has the potential to make a positive and far-reaching impact on children’s health, dietary practices, and the food industry as a whole.

MARKET POTENTIAL 

The market potential for this high-fibre, gluten-free, and sugar-free chocolate chip cookie is strong due to the growing demand for healthy snacks, especially among health-conscious families and those with dietary restrictions like celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and diabetes. It appeals to parents seeking nutritious options for their children, including picky eaters and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The product also has potential for adoption in schools and international markets, with opportunities for brand loyalty and expansion into additional healthy snack products.

TRL : 9

Project Leader : Dr. Nur Hana Binti Hamzaid

Co-Researcher : Prof. Madya Dr. Hasnah Binti Haron, Haziqah Ismail

Dept./Fac./Inst : Faculty of Health Sciences, UKM

Expertise : Health Sciences : Nutrition & Dietetic ( Nutrition For Special Needs Children )