A recent investigation has shed light on Nestle’s Cerelac baby products sold in India, revealing concerning levels of added sugar in every serving. The findings, brought forth by Public Eye, indicate that all 15 Cerelac baby products in India contain an average of nearly 3 grams of sugar per serving, a stark contrast to similar products sold in developed nations where they are sugar-free.
According to the report, Nestle, the world’s largest consumer goods company, includes sugar and honey in infant milk and cereal products in various countries, including India. This practice goes against international guidelines aimed at preventing obesity and chronic diseases, with violations observed predominantly in Asian, African, and Latin American countries.
While Nestle has defended its practices, stating that it has reduced the total amount of added sugars in its infant cereals portfolio by 30% over the past five years and continues to review and reformulate products, concerns persist. The lack of transparency regarding added sugar content, often not disclosed in nutritional information on packaging, raises further alarm.
The disparity in sugar content between different regions is evident, with Cerelac products sold in Germany and the UK containing no added sugar, while those in India contain nearly 3 grams per serving. This discrepancy highlights the need for greater scrutiny and regulation in ensuring consistency and transparency across global markets.
Experts warn against the dangers of adding sugar to baby products, emphasizing its addictive nature and the potential 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 sugary foods to infants and young children, citing the increased likelihood of obesity and other chronic diseases in later life.
As Nestle faces scrutiny over its Cerelac products, questions arise regarding the company’s commitment to nutritional quality and transparency in its offerings. With concerns mounting, consumers and regulatory authorities alike are calling for greater accountability and measures to safeguard the health and well-being of infants and young children.
Nestle’s Cerelac products garnered over ₹20,000 crore in sales in India in 2022, underscoring the significant impact of these revelations on consumers and the broader market.
This report serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and oversight in ensuring the integrity and safety of food products, particularly those targeted at vulnerable populations such as infants and young children.