We know that parents feel strongly about children's food and the way children's food is advertised

Annie Seeley, Food Commission nutritionist

The organisation, which devised the project, plans to use parents' suggestions to urge manufacturers, advertisers and the government to improve children's food.

Parents of children aged between two and 16 are being invited to become "jurors".

They will examine the products and the selling tactics used by food manufacturers.

Those deemed unsuitable could be in line for the "Additive Nightmare" award, which will relies most for its appeal on artificial sweeteners, colours and flavourings.

There is also the "Pester Power" award for the marketing technique that most encourages children to nag their parents for junk food.

High fat food

On the positive side, there is the "Happy Gnasher" award for products that help steer children away from developing a sweet tooth.

The best promotion of fruit and vegetables to children will receive the "High Five" award.

Food Commission Nutritionist and jury co-ordinator Annie Seeley said: "We know that parents feel strongly about children's food and the way children's food is advertised.

"They find that most of it is high in fat, salt, sugar or additives, and that food manufacturers use dubious techniques to market it.

"But parents don't know who to complain to.

"The parents' jury is a chance for them to say what they think."

However, the Food and Drink Federation, the voice of the UK's food and drink manufacturing industry, has given the idea a cool reception.

A spokesman said: "Consumers are judge and jury when it comes to what foods make up their children's diets.

"They give their verdict every week at the supermarket checkout."