Consumer Affairs Ministry Urges FSSAI Probe Into Nestle's Cerelac Composition In India
"We have written to the FSSAI to take cognisance of the report on Nestle's baby product," said Consumer Affairs Secretary and Central Consumer Protection Authority chief Nidhi Khare
The Consumer Affairs Ministry on Friday requested the food safety regulator FSSAI to investigate the composition of Nestle's Cerelac baby cereals available in India. This action follows a global report alleging that the company has increased the sugar content in the product. Swiss NGO Public Eye and the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) found that Nestle sold baby products with higher sugar content in less developed South Asian countries, including India, Africa, and Latin American nations, compared to European markets.
"We have written to the FSSAI to take cognisance of the report on Nestle's baby product," Consumer Affairs Secretary and Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) chief Nidhi Khare told PTI.
In the letter addressed to FSSAI, Khare stated that the Department of Consumer Affairs has been made aware through several news articles about Nestle's practices in India, especially regarding the composition of Nestle Cerelac cereals. Citing news reports, she mentioned that a Switzerland-based organisation has published a report outlining Nestle's manufacturing practices in India.
"According to the report, Nestle has been alleged to add 2.7 grams of sugar per serving of Nestle Cerelac baby cereals sold in India while refraining from such practices in other countries such as Germany, Switzerland, France and the UK," Khare wrote in the letter.
Stressing the significance of elevated sugar levels in baby products, the Secretary emphasised the severe concerns regarding the potential impact on the health and safety of children in the country. She said, "The health and wellbeing of our citizens, especially infants and young children, is of paramount importance, and any deviation from safety standards could lead to serious health concerns. The FSSAI has been requested to initiate an appropriate action into the practices of Nestle company regarding the composition of Nestle Cerelac baby cereals sold in India.”
She further added that FSSAI should thoroughly investigate the matter and provide transparent facts.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has acknowledged the report and issued a notice to the FSSAI regarding the matter.
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