Home / Health / Kerala Child Rights Body Halts Sugar in Nutrimix
Kerala Child Rights Body Halts Sugar in Nutrimix
2 Sep
Summary
- Commission orders sugar removal from Amrutham Nutrimix.
- Jaggery replacement for sugar is under examination.
- Nutrimix sugar content questioned against WHO guidelines.
The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has directed the Women and Child Development (WCD) Director to eliminate sugar from Amrutham Nutrimix, a vital food supplement provided at anganwadis. This directive stems from a complaint highlighting the supplement's 20% sugar content, which contravenes World Health Organization guidelines and poses a risk of lifestyle diseases for children.
The commission is further investigating the potential replacement of sugar with jaggery and requires a high-level committee to scientifically determine appropriate nutritional components. Instructions are also being issued to ensure age-appropriate Nutrimix quantities are distributed, based on Union government guidelines. The WCD Director has indicated that replacing sugar with jaggery is currently under departmental review.
Additionally, the commission mandates clearer labeling on children's food products, including Amrutham Nutrimix, specifying ingredient quantities, nutritional information, and recommended serving sizes. Awareness campaigns for anganwadi workers and beneficiaries regarding nutritious food, preparation methods, and healthy habits are also planned, potentially utilizing the Poshan Tracker app and WhatsApp groups.
