Protect Kenyan babies from added sugar in their foods

In the ongoing global dialogue about childhood obesity and its underlying causes, attention has turned to the practices of major food companies.

One prominent player in the market recently faced criticism for adding sugar in infant milk and children's cereals in low- and middle-income countries while the same products remain sugar-free in their home country in Europe and across all European Union. This has sparked widespread concern among health advocates and the public in Kenya.

The issue highlights broader implications for children's health. Excessive sugar consumption during childhood is associated with numerous health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. 

The World Health Organization guidelines state that no added sugar should be used in foods for infants under the age of three. 

Mandatory front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWLs) have emerged as a potential evidence-based solution to address this challenge. Many countries, including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela, have passed laws requiring mandatory FOPWLs.

South Africa's ongoing endeavors to implement Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWL) highlight a broader regional dedication among African countries to promote public health policies that prioritise consumer well-being.

These labels are effective in helping consumers identify products high in harmful ingredients like sugar, sodium, saturated fat, and trans fat, and improve awareness of the health risks associated with these foods and beverages.

There are several types of front-of-pack labeling, but studies from around the world have shown that the most effective are warning labels that appear on the front package and state that a product is “high in” or has “excessive” amounts of harmful ingredients.

“We strongly advocate for the urgent implementation of evidence-based mandatory FOPWLs in Kenya. By providing clear and accessible information about the sugar content in food products, the Ministry of Health can empower parents to make healthier choices and protect children's health from the dangers of excessive sugar consumption. It's imperative that we prioritize the health of our children,” Celine Awuor, CEO at the International Institute for Legislative Affairs, said recently.

Prioritising the implementation of Front of Pack Warning Labels would not only hold companies accountable for their actions but would also protect the health and well-being of Kenya's children.

This case of the offending European company highlights the necessity for increased transparency and regulation in the food industry. It serves as a call to action for the Kenyan government to step forward and protect its citizens, especially the most vulnerable, from the harmful effects of excessive sugar consumption.

The time for action is now, and mandatory evidence-based FOPWLs can play a significant role in safeguarding children's health in Kenya. These warning labels will offer clear and accessible information to consumers about the sugar content in food products, empowering them to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.

By implementing FOPWLs, the Ministry of Health can take proactive steps to safeguard children's health and equip parents with the information they need to protect their child’s future.