This study aimed to identify the amount of discretionary foods and drinks consumed by Norwegian children and adolescents, describe how such products contribute to the intake of total energy and nutrients, and study the distribution in intake of discretionary foods and drinks across different meals. Secondly, the aim was to explore factors associated with those children and adolescents having the highest consumption of discretionary foods and drinks.

Secondary analysis of data from a national survey of dietary intake among Norwegian children and adolescents.

Schools in fifty randomly selected municipalities in Norway.

The study population included 636 pupils in 4th grade (9–11 years) and 687 pupils in 8th grade (12–14 years).

Discretionary foods and drinks contributed to about 20 % of the children and adolescents’ total energy intake. These products contributed to about two-thirds of the participants’ intake of added sugar, and limited amounts of dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals. The quartile which had the lowest proportion of their energy intake from discretionary foods and drinks seemed to have a higher intake of whole grains, and fish and seafood.

Almost all 4th and 8th graders in Norway consumed discretionary foods and drinks, and these products contributed to a substantial proportion of the total energy intake and limited amounts of nutrients. Those children and adolescents consuming the least discretionary foods and drinks had a higher intake of whole grains, fish and seafood, indicating healthier and more sustainable food habits.