Although there are some regulations determining the composition and ingredients permissible in foods marketed to infants and young children, these do not in themselves ensure that food is health promoting or appropriate. We have looked at baby food marketed in the UK and highlight some of the key issues that health professionals may find useful when providing advice and support to families with infants and young children.
This report looks at processed dried fruit snacks made from blended fruit purees and juices which are marketed as ‘fruit equivalents’ but which are closer in composition to confectionery. The report looks at those on the UK market, their composition, cost and sugar content and makes 8 key points highlighting the need for better labelling and the unsuitability of these products (in our opinion) for young children.
This report looks at products from all manufacturers in the UK that are majority fruit and/or vegetable based and marketed in pouches with nozzles for both infants and children under the age of 5 years. The report looks at the impact of processing on composition, the sugar content of products , their cost and composition and makes 9 recommendations for changes to public health messaging, labelling and health professional advice.
A review of commercially produced jars and pouches of baby foods marketed in the UK
This report looks at commercially produced baby foods marketed for infants under 12 months of age in the UK by the four largest manufacturers. It considers how well these support our guidance on introduction of solids and looks at composition, cost, texture and ingredients. We also compare some homemade versions of baby food with commercially bought ones and provide answers to some FAQ that health professionals may be asked about these products.
