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New Delhi: An investigation by Public Eye has shed light on Nestle’s baby-food practices in India, revealing significant differences in sugar content compared to products sold in developed nations. While Nestle’s baby-food offerings in countries like the United Kingdom and Germany are sugar-free, those in India contain high levels of added sugar, a practice deemed concerning by experts.
According to the findings, all 15 Cerelac baby products in India contain an average of nearly 3 grams of sugar per serving, a stark contrast to the sugar-free variants available in other regions. The investigation also uncovered similar disparities in countries like Ethiopia and Thailand, where Cerelac contains nearly 6 grams of sugar per serving.
Despite Nestle’s emphasis on the vitamins and minerals present in its products, the report highlights a lack of transparency regarding added sugar, which is often not disclosed in the nutritional information provided on packaging.
Experts caution against the dangers of adding sugar to baby products, citing its addictive nature and the potential for long-term health implications. Rodrigo Vianna, an epidemiologist and Professor at the Department of Nutrition of the Federal University of Paraiba in Brazil, underscores the risks associated with introducing babies to sweet tastes, which can contribute to a preference for sugary foods and increase the likelihood of obesity and other chronic diseases later in life.
Responding to the investigation, a spokesperson for Nestle India stated that the company complies with local regulations and international standards. They also noted efforts to reduce added sugars across their infant cereal range by up to 30% over the past five years. Despite these efforts, concerns persist regarding the nutritional integrity of baby-food products and their impact on infant health.
