An investigation by Public Eye has revealed that two of the best-selling baby-food brands by Nestle in India contain significantly high levels of added sugar, in stark contrast to their sugar-free counterparts in developed nations like the United Kingdom, Germany, and Switzerland.
The report highlights Nestle’s practice of adding sugar and honey to infant milk and cereal products in several countries, a deviation from international guidelines aimed at curbing obesity and chronic diseases. Notably, these violations were found exclusively in Asian, African, and Latin American countries.
India, in response to the report, has initiated an examination of the charges against the baby-food products. Sources within the health ministry indicate that the findings from the study will be presented before a scientific panel for further evaluation.
NDTV Profit quoted a spokesperson for Nestle India Ltd and reported that the company has reduced the total amount of added sugars in its infant cereals portfolio by 30 percent over the past five years and continues to review and reformulate products to further minimise sugar content.
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Nestle emphasised its commitment to the nutritional quality of its early childhood products, prioritising the use of high-quality ingredients.
What does the investigation says
However, the investigation found that all 15 Cerelac baby products in India contain an average of nearly 3 grams of sugar per serving, whereas the same products are marketed with no added sugar in Germany and the UK. In countries like Ethiopia and Thailand, the sugar content in similar products is nearly double. Additionally, the report noted that the amount of added sugar is often not disclosed in the nutritional information available on the packaging of these products.
The report criticised Nestle for its lack of transparency regarding added sugar, noting that while the company prominently highlights the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in its products, it fails to disclose information about added sugar.
In 2022, Nestle reportedly sold over Rs 20,000 crore worth of Cerelac products in India, underscoring the significant market presence of these baby-food brands.
Experts have expressed concerns about the practice of adding sugar to baby products, emphasizing its potential dangers and unnecessary nature.
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