Nestlé is facing global criticism after a Swiss watchdog accused the company of adding sugar to its Cerelac baby cereals sold across Africa, in violation of World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.
Nestlé
The report, published by Public Eye on November 18, alleges that while Cerelac products marketed in Europe contain no added sugar for infants from six months, African variants include significant amounts.
WHO policy strictly warns against added sugars for toddlers under two years to prevent obesity, dental problems, and early sugar dependency.
Public Eye said laboratory tests on nearly 100 Cerelac products from 20 African countries revealed added sugar averaging six grams per serving. One Kenyan product intended for babies as young as six months contained 7.5 grams – nearly two cubes of sugar.
The findings have sparked outrage among public health groups. A coalition of 19 African civil society organisations wrote to Nestlé CEO Philipp Navratil, accusing the multinational of “double standards” and demanding an immediate recall of sugary Cerelac from African markets.
“If added sugar is not suitable for Swiss and European children, it is not suitable for children in Africa and beyond,” the letter stated.
Nestlé has rejected the allegations, describing them as “misleading and unfounded.” A spokesperson told Al Jazeera that the company offers both sugar-free and sweetened variants worldwide and is working to ensure all Cerelac lines have no added sugar by the end of 2025.
The controversy comes at a critical time for Africa, where childhood obesity is rising even as undernutrition persists. WHO figures show the number of overweight children under five has nearly doubled since 1990, leaving countries to grapple with a dual burden of malnutrition and excess weight.
Civil society groups insist Nestlé’s practices put African children at risk. Their letter concluded: “By adding sugar to infant cereals, Nestlé is deliberately putting the health of African babies at risk for profit. This must end now.”
