Mealtime behaviors are influenced by one's cultural and social context. In India, patterns, foods and ways of eating are different than western countries. Literature shows evidence of the presence of problematic mealtime behaviors in both typically developing children and children with ASD and it's a major concern for parents.

To explore mealtime behaviors in typically developing children in Indian context and compare it with children with ASD.

A cross-sectional survey using Children's eating behavior inventory (CEBI), a parent report measure assessed eating and mealtime behavior issues in 150 typically developing children and 30 children with ASD in the age range of 2 to 12 years. CEBI consists of 40 items, rated on a 5-point scale. Problematic behavior is also rated on a 2-point scale. Analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson's Correlation coefficient test and Chi² test of independence.

Results proved the presence of problematic mealtime behaviors in both the groups but more in children with ASD. Independent t-test was found to be significant t (178)=3.041, P<0.003 indicating a difference between mealtime behaviors in both the groups. Pearson's Chi² was found to be X2 (2, N=180)=18.83, P<0.001 showing a statistically significant association between problematic mealtime behaviors (mealtime behaviors>16% cut-off) and the two groups

Mealtime behaviors are present in typically developing children and children with ASD. However, these behaviors occur more frequently in children with ASD and are more problematic for their parents. Findings of the present study support the existing evidence on mealtime behaviors. Further studies can emphasize on evaluating more mealtime behaviors and type of food preferences in typically developing children.