What is Nestlé accused of doing in Africa?

Nestlé is accused of adding sugar to the majority of its baby cereal products sold across Africa, which campaigners say is putting the health of African babies at risk.

How much sugar is in Nestlé's baby cereals in Africa?

According to the investigation, Nestlé's Cerelac baby cereal products in Africa contain an average of 6 grams or 1.5 teaspoons of added sugar per serving.

Why does Nestlé defend its use of added sugar in African baby cereals?

Nestlé claims the sweet cereals are necessary to combat malnutrition, a major issue in Africa, as babies are used to sweet tastes and may refuse to eat unsweetened foods.

Home / Health / Nestlé Accused of Prioritizing Profits Over African Babies' Health with Added Sugar

Nestlé Accused of Prioritizing Profits Over African Babies' Health with Added Sugar

18 Nov

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Summary

Nestlé adding sugar to most baby cereals sold in Africa
Campaigners say this contributes to rising childhood obesity
Nestlé claims sweet cereals are vital to combat malnutrition

Nestlé Accused of Prioritizing Profits Over African Babies' Health with Added Sugar

As of November 2025, Nestlé is under fire for continuing to add sugar to most of its baby cereals sold across Africa. Campaigners have accused the food giant of "putting the health of African babies at risk for profit," as rates of childhood obesity rise on the continent.

The investigation, conducted by the Swiss advocacy group Public Eye, found that over 90% of Nestlé's Cerelac baby cereal products in more than 20 African countries contained added sugar, with an average of 6 grams or 1.5 teaspoons per serving. This contradicts World Health Organization guidelines, which recommend no added sugars for children under 3 due to the risk of developing long-term preferences for sweetened foods.