Thai paediatrician worries about Grade 5 textbook encouraging bad eating habits

A Thai paediatrician worries that a Grade 5 textbook is encouraging bad eating habits.

A recent controversy has sparked public debate involving a Thai language textbook for Grade 5 students discussing simplistic and potentially unhealthy meal suggestions, and a paediatrician has expressed deep concern over the limited worldview and nutritional value presented.

The textbook contains content depicting a character enjoying a meal consisting of half a boiled egg mixed with fish sauce, or plain rice mixed with stir-fried morning glory as an adequate and satisfying meal. This character’s happiness in having a simple, contented life has led society to question the nutritional needs of children, as well as whether the text is promoting an overly romanticised outlook on life.

Dr. Jiraruj Chomchai, a paediatric respiratory specialist,…