Food Aversions
Food Sensory and Autism: What It Looks Like, Why It’s Hard, and How to Help
For many families navigating life on the autism spectrum, mealtimes can feel less like a cozy family dinner and more like a high-stakes negotiation. Food sensory challenges are incredibly common in autism, and they go far beyond just being “picky eating.” Understanding what’s going on—and how to approach it—can make a huge difference for both parents and kids.
In our family, we’ve got both ends of the food spectrum—one kiddo who’s a total foodie and will try almost anything, and another who struggles with food-related sensory challenges. With him, we’ve been slowly working on re-trying old foods and even experimenting with new ones.
One tool that’s been a big win from his OT is a food rating chart. He gets to try something, then give it stars at the end. It’s been super helpful—although he really wants to write down every sweet treat he eats. I had to set the rule: only “real foods” count (with a few exceptions). For example, when he tried popcorn, I let him add it to the list.
Some of his biggest struggles are with bread and cheese. But recently, he surprised us—he tried banana nut bread and gave it 4 stars! 🎉 Popcorn also made the list—wasn’t his favorite, but he didn’t mind it either. These might sound like little steps, but they’ve been years in the making, and I couldn’t be prouder of him.
One interesting (and sometimes confusing) part of sensory eating is how much texture matters. He’ll flat-out refuse regular bread, but will happily eat frozen French toast sticks. When I think about it, it makes sense—they’re totally different textures. That’s something I try to keep in mind: it’s not always about the food itself, but how it feels.
So, when you’re introducing new foods—or feeling frustrated that your child won’t eat something as “simple” as a sandwich—try breaking it down. My son will eat the sandwich meat, just not the bread. Same with burgers—he’ll eat the patty, but no bun, no cheese.
It’s definitely a learning process. Sometimes it’s frustrating, but I try to remind myself that it’s even more frustrating for him. Keeping that perspective helps us both move forward with a little more patience.
Keep reading for more information on the subject along with some ideas you may want to try.
What Food Sensory Challenges Look Like
Every child (and adult) on the spectrum is unique, but here are some of the most common ways food sensory sensitivities show up:
Texture troubles: Crunchy, mushy, slimy, or gritty foods may feel unbearable. A banana may taste fine but feel “wrong” in the mouth.
Strong reactions to smell: A casserole cooking in the oven or even the faint scent of spices can overwhelm the senses.
Color and presentation preferences: Some children only eat foods of a certain color (like beige foods—bread, crackers, fries) or foods that look exactly the same every time.
Temperature sensitivity: Too hot or too cold can mean instant refusal.
Brand loyalty (to the extreme): Chicken nuggets from one brand may be safe, while nuggets from another brand are considered completely different food.
To outsiders, this can look like “stubbornness” or “bad behavior,” but it’s not. It’s a genuine sensory processing difference that makes certain foods uncomfortable—or even unbearable—for the autistic brain.
The Difficulties It Can Cause
Food sensory challenges can impact everyday life in a big way:
Limited diets may cause nutritional concerns or make it tricky to plan meals.
Family stress at mealtimes can turn dinner into a daily battle.
Social challenges—like birthday parties, holidays, or school lunches—can create anxiety for both kids and parents.
Misunderstandings—well-meaning family, teachers, or friends might assume the child is just “being picky,” which can be frustrating.
Helpful Tips for Supporting Your Child
The goal isn’t to “fix” eating—it’s to support your child’s needs, gently expand comfort zones, and reduce stress for everyone involved. Here are some practical tips:
Create safe foods
Always have a few “go-to” safe foods available. This helps reduce anxiety at mealtimes and gives your child a sense of control.Introduce new foods slowly
Instead of placing an unfamiliar dish in front of them, let them explore it in stages—looking at it, smelling it, touching it, and eventually tasting it when they’re ready.Respect sensory preferences
If crunchy textures are easier, offer veggies like carrot sticks or apple slices instead of cooked mushy ones. If beige is comforting, try adding small variations in shape or brand before introducing new colors.Keep mealtimes low-pressure
Avoid turning the table into a battlefield. Gentle exposure works far better than bribes or ultimatums.Get them involved
Kids are often more open to trying foods they’ve helped shop for, prepare, or cook. Even stirring, pouring, or plating can make food feel less intimidating.Celebrate small wins
Licked a spoon? Took a nibble? Even looked at a new food without gagging? That’s progress—acknowledge it!Work with professionals if needed
An occupational therapist (OT) with experience in sensory processing can provide structured strategies to support safe, positive food exploration.
The Bottom Line
Food sensory challenges in autism are real, and they can be exhausting—for kids and for parents. But with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, mealtimes don’t have to feel impossible. Remember: it’s not about forcing your child to eat like everyone else—it’s about finding a way for them to feel safe, supported, and nourished.