Unveiling Nestle's Sugar Controversy in Baby Foods: An In-Depth Analysis

A company named 'Public Eye' tested the Nestle baby food from all over the globe and found that it contained high levels of added sugar. A report given by Public Eye titled "Sugar: for Nestlé, not all babies are equal". Clearly states that the guidelines given International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) have not been followed by Nestle. 

FSSAI has affirmed its commitment to investigating the sugar controversy of Nestle. It may take a little time to take action against Nestle.

Overview

• Added sugar founded on a product and location
• Effects of added sugar on babies

Added sugar founded on a product and location

Product                      Location                  Added sugar

Cerelac                          India                       2.7gm

flavoured cereal             SA                          6gm

Mucilon                         Brazil                        4gm

cereal                           Nigeria                      6.8gm

Effects of added sugar on babies

Adding sugar to a baby's diet is generally not recommended, especially in the first year of life. Here are several reasons why and how added sugar can affect babies:

1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Babies need nutrient-rich foods to grow and develop. Foods high in added sugars often provide calories but lack essential nutrients, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies if these foods displace more nutrient-dense options.
2. Tooth Decay: Introducing added sugars can increase the risk of tooth decay. Even before all of a baby's teeth appear, sugar can affect the health of the gums and emerging teeth.
3. Taste Preferences: Early exposure to sweet flavors can influence taste preferences, leading to a greater preference for sugary foods as the child grows. This can make it more challenging to introduce healthier options and may foster poor eating habits that extend into later childhood and adulthood.
4. Obesity: Consuming foods and drinks with added sugars can contribute to an excessive caloric intake, which may increase the risk of childhood obesity. Obesity in childhood can then lead to other health issues, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
5. Gastrointestinal Issues: Excessive sugar consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress in babies, including diarrhea or bloating, as babies' digestive systems are still developing and may not handle high-sugar foods well.
6. Insulin Resistance and Diabetes: Early introduction and high consumption of sugary foods and beverages can increase the risk of developing insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.