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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has clarified its stance on the controversy surrounding Nestle’s use of sugar and honey in infant milk and cereal products in many countries.
NAFDAC has confirmed that Nestle Nido follow-up milk formula and Cerelac, intended for use for infants, are not products found in circulation in Nigeria.
This clarification comes in response to international media reports alleging that Nestle, the world’s largest consumer goods company, adds sugar and honey to infant milk and cereal products sold in many poorer countries, contrary to international guidelines aimed at preventing obesity and chronic diseases.
NAFDAC has assured the public that it exercises due regulatory diligence in the registration of infant and young children foods distributed and used in Nigeria, in line with relevant Codex Alimentarius international food standards and Nigerian Industrial Standards.
The agency has emphasized that the range of Nestle Cerelac infant cereals distributed in Nigeria are duly registered with NAFDAC and comply with safety, quality, and labeling requirements.
Moreover, international and national food standards permit the addition of sucrose, fructose, glucose, glucose syrup, or honey to processed cereal-based foods for infants and young children, provided the added carbohydrates from these sources do not exceed the stated levels.
NAFDAC has reiterated its commitment to monitoring and enforcing compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes and the national regulations for the marketing of infant and young children food and other designated products.
The agency has reassured the public that it is fully committed to ensuring the safety, wholesomeness, and quality of infant and young children foods offered for sale in Nigeria.
NAFDAC’s clarification on the Nestle sugar controversy underscores its dedication to upholding regulatory standards for infant and young children food products in Nigeria.
This assurance provides the public with confidence in the safety and quality of the food products available in the Nigerian market.
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