In a recent report, it was revealed that Nestlé adds sugar and honey to specific brands of infant formula and breakfast cereals in lower-income countries, a practice that differs from what is done in Europe. Public Eye and the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) conducted an analysis of 150 Nestlé products sold in these regions. The findings showed that most Cerelac infant cereals contained added sugar, with an average of nearly four grams per serving, peaking at 7.3 grams in the Philippines. Similarly, Nido powdered milks had nearly two grams of added sugar per serving in most products, reaching 5.3 grams in Panama.
According to the report, in countries like Switzerland and other European markets, similar products are sold without added sugar, exposing a double standard that has ethical and public health implications, especially given the rising obesity rates in lower-income nations.
Nestlé responded to these allegations by stating that they apply consistent nutrition, health, and wellness principles globally. They emphasized that their baby food products comply with local regulations and international standards, including limits on carbohydrate content and sugar levels. Over the past decade, Nestlé has reduced added sugars in their infant cereals by 11% worldwide.
Cerelac is advertised as nutritious instant cereals for infants aged six months and above, while the Nido range offers nutrition solutions for different stages of childhood, earning the trust of mothers. However, critics claim that Nestlé uses misleading marketing tactics, including the involvement of medical professionals and social media influencers, to promote their products to parents.
Public Eye and IBFAN have launched a petition urging Nestlé to eliminate added sugar from products meant for babies and young children worldwide. Despite the backlash, Nestlé remains committed to innovating and reformulating their infant cereal products to lower added sugar content without compromising quality, safety, or taste.
The report also cited Nigel Rollins from the World Health Organization, highlighting the unjustified double standard in sugar content across Nestlé’s product range. Nestlé has been urged to increase transparency regarding added sugar levels and adhere to WHO recommendations for baby foods.
In response to these concerns, Nestlé clarified that they are phasing out added sugars from their Nido growing up milks globally and are making efforts to reduce sugar levels in their products. While variations in recipes exist due to local regulations and sourcing of ingredients, Nestlé assures consumers of the quality of their products.
