Why Double Standards? Nestle hooks children by adding sugar to food products in poorer nations, reveals study

The question arises again, are we giving the right product to our children? After Bournvita, the health drink, one of the recent studies reveals that Nestle, the best-selling infant food brand in India has been including a lot of sugar in two of its products, although similar products are sugar-free in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany and other developed countries.

According to a Public Eye investigation report, Nestle, the largest consumer goods firm globally, violates international norms meant to prevent obesity and chronic diseases by adding sugar and honey to newborn milk and cereal products in several nations. Only countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America have violations.

Cause of concern

Nestle's practice of adding sugar to infant milk sold in poorer nations while not doing so in Europe and the UK has raised concerns about potential health implications. The addition of sugar to infant formula can contribute to various health issues, including obesity and dental problems, particularly in regions where access to dental care and nutritional education may be limited.

Critics argue that this practice perpetuates health disparities between wealthier and poorer nations and raises questions about corporate responsibility and ethical marketing practices. Some advocate for stricter regulations and greater transparency in the marketing and formulation of infant formula to ensure the health and well-being of infants worldwide.

How much sugar does it have?

According to the study, at least 15 Cerelac baby products contain an average of nearly 3 grams of sugar per serving. While the same product has 6 grams of sugar serving in Ethiopia and Thailand. It is worth noting that the amount of sugar added to the products is generally not disclosed in the nutritional information on the packaging of the product. The experts have raised concerns over the added sugar, as it could be highly addictive and can cause serious health concerns in toddlers.

It is believed that Nestle does it because it knows that children like sugar, if they like the product and becomes additive, they would come back and want their product again.

In 2022, as per sources, the World Health Organization (WHO) called for the ban of added sugar in food products for babies and urged the industry to be more proactive and support health goals to be more concerned about reformulating the products.