DD1 is 2 years and 3 months.
1. Overall, what did your DC(s) think of Quaker Oat So Simple Kids Porridge? Did they make any comments about the texture, smell, taste or appearance?
I was expecting something more substantial in the packet. It felt like I was pour out some powder with cocoa mixed in. It didn't smell very nice when it first came out of the packet, but smelt a bit better when milk was added. DD1 seemed to like the texture and taste, but commented "no chocolate". I don't like giving DD1 sugary breakfast cereals, but the product has to do what it says on the tin, which is for it to be chocolaty.
It was easy to pour out of the packet, but difficult to add milk to the 180ml line. I found 180ml to be slightly too much milk, making it too gloopy. I found adding about 150ml to be about right for DD1.
Microwaving it for 1 min 30 secs was too long. It bubbled over DD1's bowl and was way too hot for her to eat. The next time I tried 1 min, which I found was better.
There was also slightly too much in the packet for DD1 to finish. I would prefer a box, rather than individual packets, of porridge, which comes with a measuring scoop to measure out the porridge and milk to make things easier for busy mums! Having the scoop will allow mums to vary the porridge according to the appetites.
2. What would you say are the main benefits of Quaker Oat So Simple Kids porridge, for you and/or for your DCs? What would be the key reason for you to buy the product?
DD1 doesn't usually like breakfast cereals (preferring toast or eggs), so I was happy to test this product to try to get her to have something warm and nutritious to start the day. The fact that it is low in salt and sugar, is definitely a plus.
3. What did you and your DC(s) like/dislike about the packaging (including the box and the individual sachets)? Why?
DD1 found the box appealing, and would ask for the "bear's porridge" for breakfast.
The concept of pouring milk into the packet is good, but the packet is too flimsy. It wasn't easy filling it up without spilling anything, especially with DD1 jumping up and down, pulling my legs asking for breakfast!
4. Do you have any ideas about how Quaker could make the Oat So Simple Kids Porridge more interesting for your DC(s)?
DD1 seemed to enjoy the porridge initially. However, after about 3/4 days, she stopped asking for it and wasn't interested in it any more. If it comes in individual packets, perhaps there could be a mixed variety box to keep children interested in eating it, as every day could be different.
A colouring in section/games ideas on the inside of the box would be good, so children could play with it. Maybe a short cartoon strip printed on the packet or outside of the box to entertain children at the table.