A significant number of American baby foods do not meet WHO recommendations

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 08. 22. 11:39

According to a recent study, a significant number of baby foods sold in the United States do not meet the nutritional guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO). The research, which looked at hundreds of foods intended for children aged 6-36 months, raises serious concerns about both the nutritional value of the products and marketing practices.

During the study, 651 baby foods were analyzed and it was found that 60% of the products did not meet the nutritional recommendations of the WHO. They found it particularly problematic that the protein content of 70% of the examined foods and the calorie content of 25% were inadequate. In addition, the salt content of every fifth product exceeded the recommended level, while 44% contained too much sugar.

The study specifically addresses the growing popularity of baby food in pouches, which experts consider worrisome. Dr. Mark Corkins, chairman of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Committee on Nutrition, emphasized, “Kids need to learn to chew, so they should be eating real fruit, not pureed, sweetened stuff.”

The research also revealed deceptive marketing practices. 99.4% of the tested products contained at least one claim prohibited by WHO recommendations. Dr Daisy Coyle, co-author of the research, said the lack of regulation allows the food industry to mislead busy parents.

The results of the study urge the tightening of regulations so that baby foods meet the nutritional guidelines necessary for the healthy development of children.