Indian variant of Nestle's Cerelac crosses recommended sugar limit: Health issues it can cause in kids

Popular baby food brand, Nestle is under scanner. Non-governmental organisations Public Eye and the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) have appealed to the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) to take legal action against the company for practicing unethical practices.
The report says, the sugar content in the baby food product, Cerelac, manufactured by Nestle in Indian markets has 2.7 grams of sugar per serving, which is a lot for a baby food product.Surprisingly, the report says, the Cerelac, available in the UK and Germany advertises no additional sugar content. In Thailand, Cerelac has 6 grams of sugar. In the Philippines, the products have 7.3 grams of sugar with no indication on the packet.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends adults and children reduce their daily intake of free sugars to less than 10% of their total energy intake. A further reduction to below 5% or roughly 25 grams (6 teaspoons) per day would provide additional health benefits. It advises parents to not give babies added sugars before the age of two.

The consumption of added sugars poses significant health risks to children, impacting their short-term and long-term well-being. One of the primary concerns is the increased risk of obesity. High intake of sugary foods and beverages contributes to excessive calorie consumption, leading to weight gain and childhood obesity, which can set the stage for lifelong health issues such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome.

Added sugars also adversely affect dental health, promoting tooth decay and cavities due to the bacteria in the mouth converting sugars into harmful acids.
Diets high in added sugars can displace essential nutrients, leading to deficiencies in vital vitamins and minerals necessary for growth and development.
Behavioral issues and cognitive impairments are other potential risks, as high sugar consumption is linked to hyperactivity, attention problems, and poor academic performance. Moreover, excessive sugar intake can disrupt healthy eating patterns, creating a preference for sweet foods over more nutritious options, which can hinder the development of balanced dietary habits.

The consumption of added sugars in children can lead to obesity, dental problems, nutrient deficiencies, and behavioral issues, underscoring the importance of limiting added sugars in their diet for better overall health and development.