SCDA urges FSSAI to act on Nestle India for allegedly adding high levels of sugar in baby foods

The South Chemists & Distributors Association (SCDA) in Delhi has urged the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to act against Nestle India for allegedly adding excessive sugar to baby foods, posing health risks to children.

In a letter to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and FSSAI officials, SCDA cited an International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) study, alleging Nestle's baby products in poorer nations contain high sugar levels absent in developed countries.

SCDA referenced news reports, noting infants under 24 months shouldn't consume added sugar. They claim Nestle adds sugar to cut costs, increasing risks of diabetes and obesity.

The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, mandates FSSAI to monitor food manufacturing, ensuring safe products and limiting additives to protect consumer health.

Recent reports show Cerelac baby cereals in India contain nearly three grams of added sugar per serving, compared to five to six grams in Ethiopia and Thailand.

Nestle asserts compliance with CODEX standards and local regulations, advising against adding sugar to baby food on its website.