In a recent study conducted by the Belgian laboratory Fatshimetrie, samples of Nido children’s milk formula and Cerelac infant cereals from regions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America were tested. The study revealed the presence of sucrose and honey as sweet additives in these products meant for toddlers, sparking concern about their sugar content in light of World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.
The WHO in Europe advises against adding sugar to foods intended for children under three years old to prevent unnecessary sugar consumption that may lead to addiction. This practice can create a cycle of craving for sugary foods and increase the risk of sugar-related diseases in adulthood.
Samples from Nigeria were found to contain up to 6.8 grams of added sugar, while in India, Cerelac infant cereal had an average of over 2.7 grams of added sugar per serving. In Brazil, six out of eight samples of Cerelac products, marketed as Mucilon, contained nearly four grams of added sugar per serving.
In response to these findings, a spokesperson from Nestlé defended the company’s practices, stating they prioritize using high-quality ingredients and comply with local and international regulations on labeling and sugar content.
While current practices may adhere to regulations, there is a call to question the impact of adding sugars to products for toddlers. The global shift towards healthier diets for children should prompt manufacturers to reconsider their recipes and opt for less sugary alternatives.
It is crucial to raise awareness among parents about choosing foods that contribute to a healthy and balanced diet for children. It is also essential for manufacturers to be transparent about their product compositions and take steps to limit added sugars in foods intended for toddlers, as the health and well-being of future generations depend on it.
For further insights, please refer to these relevant articles:
– Pulse Nigeria – Nestlé adds sugar to infant food in poorer countries