Nestle reportedly sells sugary products to developing countries

The world's largest consumer goods company, Nestle, is facing scrutiny for adding sugar and honey to its baby food products sold in poorer nations while maintaining sugar-free options in Europe.

This practice, which contradicts international guidelines to prevent obesity and chronic diseases, was revealed in a recent investigation by the Swiss investigative organization Public Eye.

Public Eye's research found that products like Nido milk formula and Cerelac cereals contain added sugars such as sucrose or honey in markets across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

In contrast, similar products in European countries like the U.K. and Switzerland do not include these additives. This discrepancy raises concerns about a double standard in product formulation depending on the market.

The impact of such practices is significant, as obesity rates in low- and middle-income countries are on the rise. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded a 23% increase in overweight children under five in Africa since 2000.

Experts argue that early exposure to sugary foods can lead to a lifelong preference for sweet products, heightening the risk of obesity and related health issues.

Laurent Gaberell from Public Eye highlighted the urgency of the matter, stating, "Nestle must put an end to these dangerous double standards and stop adding sugar in all products for children under three years old, in every part of the world."

Global sales data from market-research company Euromonitor International supports this call to action, which shows significant revenue from these products in developing countries.

A Nestle spokesperson responded to these findings by emphasizing the company's commitment to high nutritional standards and adherence to local regulations. "We believe in the nutritional quality of our products for early childhood and prioritize using high-quality ingredients adapted to the growth and development of children," she explained.

The company also noted that it has reduced the total amount of added sugars in its infant cereals by 11% globally over the past decade and is continuing efforts to decrease these levels.

Despite these assurances, the discrepancy in product content between regions remains a contentious issue. Public health advocates and organizations, including the International Baby Food Action Network, continue to demand more stringent global standards and an end to the marketing of sugary products to vulnerable populations.

Source: Newsroom