Sugar in Nestlé Baby Food: NCPCR asks FSSAI to investigate urgently
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has urgently called on the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to investigate the sugar content in baby food products, specifically those manufactured by Nestle. This directive follows a concerning report highlighting discrepancies in sugar levels between Nestle’s baby food products sold in India and those in several developed countries.
Heightened Concerns Over Sugar in Baby Food
The recent scrutiny began when a report by Swiss organization Public Eye and the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) revealed that Nestle’s baby food sold in India contains higher levels of added sugar compared to its counterparts in the UK, Germany, and Switzerland. This revelation has raised alarms about potential health risks for infants and young children, prompting the NCPCR to act swiftly.
Priyank Kanoongo, the Chief of NCPCR, expressed the urgency of the situation in his communication to the FSSAI. “In light of these concerns, it is requested that FSSAI undertake a comprehensive review of the sugar content in baby food products manufactured and marketed by Nestle and other companies,” he stated.
Immediate Actions and Nestle’s Response
The commission has highlighted the need for strict adherence to nutritional quality and safety standards given the vulnerability of infants and young children. The FSSAI has been asked to furnish a report within seven days, detailing their findings and providing standard guidelines for infant food products. Additionally, the FSSAI must confirm whether Nestle’s products are certified by the authority and provide a list of all registered baby food product companies.
In response, Nestle has reassured the public and regulators by noting that it has already reduced the added sugar in its baby food products by up to 30 percent over the past five years. The company emphasizes that it never compromises on the nutritional quality of its products.
The Way Forward
The issue of sugar in baby food is not new but is a growing concern as more information comes to light about its potential health impacts. The NCPCR’s proactive stance is a crucial step in ensuring the health and well-being of the youngest members of society. As the FSSAI prepares its report, the findings will likely influence not only regulatory practices but also consumer choices and industry standards.
