Analysis of the labelling of a sample of commercial foods for infants and young children in 13 countries

The World Health Organisation (WHO), European Commission (EC) and Public Health England (PHE) published evidence of inappropriate content, marketing and labelling of commercial foods for infants and young children. Despite this, EC regulations are not yet established. To reduce rates of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) a better understanding of the food environment is needed. This study aimed to assess the labelling and listed macronutrient and sodium content of commercially available pureed foods marketed for infants and young children under 3 years of age (0-36 months) in 13 countries. A standardized protocol was developed to guide photograph collection and a sample of 155 products were obtained. All products were within current WHO and EC guidelines. However, 103 (67.7%) products were marketed for infants between 4 and 6 months, and many and contained added sugars. Action is needed to improve the nutrient composition, marketing and labelling of these products to reduce NCDs.

Automated summary

The study assessed the labelling and nutrient content of commercially available pureed foods marketed for infants and young children in 13 countries, revealing that 67.7% of products were marketed for infants between 4 and 6 months and contained added sugars. Action is needed to improve the nutrient composition, marketing and labelling of these products to reduce NCDs.