Young children (under age 2) are normally messy with food. They like to play with food as much as eat it. They are experimenting with the different feelings and textures. Sometimes they drop food or squish the food in a way that starts out as a kind of 'science experiment' and can continue when they are bored or because their parent reacts in a way that is exciting. By about 16 months, they are also learning to throw, so throwing food is the fun practice they seek. The best thing is for you to be prepared so you don't get upset. Be sure your child has a large bib. You could even have him/her wear an old, adult sized t-shirt during meals. You can protect your floors by getting what some people call a 'splat mat.' This is a protective covering you can put under a child's chair. Then plan on a bath right afterwards! To prevent big messes, just give your child a little food at a time. If your child starts throwing food more than eating, that may be a signal that he/she is done eating and mealtime can be over. At this time give your child a ball to play with and teach him/her that we throw balls, not food. Try to be patient with your child being messy with food. It is likely this is a phase he/she will grow out of.
