A recent investigation has found that baby food pouches from six major brands fail to meet important nutritional standards for infants.
The study, which tested products from Ella’s Kitchen, Heinz, Piccolo, Little Freddie, Aldi, and Lidl, revealed that many pouches lack essential nutrients, particularly iron, which is crucial for a baby’s development. Some pouches also contained more sugar than the recommended daily limit for a one-year-old, despite claims of “no added sugar.”
In addition, the BBC Panorama investigation discovered that nearly all of the vitamin C in one fruit pouch had been lost during the manufacturing process.
Dr. Alison Tedstone, a former government chief nutritionist, criticized the misleading nutritional claims of baby food pouches, stating, “You think as a parent it is a healthy product, and it just isn’t.”
Experts also raised concerns about the design of the pouches. Dental specialists warned that feeding babies through the plastic spout could contribute to tooth decay. Eddie Crouch of the British Dental Association stressed that some pouches contain more sugar than soft drinks like Coke. He added, “We need government action to force the industry to improve these products.”
Crouch also mentioned that children, who are just beginning to wean, have been hospitalized for multiple tooth extractions due to the high sugar content in these pouches. While he acknowledged that other factors contributed, he emphasized the health risks associated with regular use of sugary pouches.
Although some pouches claim to be free of added sugar, they may contain up to four teaspoons of “free sugars” — sugars released when fruits are blended.
A 2024 study found that over 200 baby food products sold in the UK did not meet World Health Organization standards due to excessive levels of sugar, salt, or calories.
Experts warn that many big brands use “halo marketing” — terms like “perfectly balanced” or “packed with goodness” — to mislead parents into thinking the products are healthier than they are. For example, Ella’s Kitchen describes some savory pouches as ideal for growing babies, while Heinz claims some of its fruit pouches are as nutritious as homemade food.
Market leader Ella’s Kitchen acknowledged that their products should be used sparingly and not as substitutes for homemade meals. The company also stated it would never prioritize profit over children’s health.
In response to the investigation, several brands have pledged to improve their practices. Lidl expressed support for clearer government guidelines, Little Freddie emphasized its focus on reducing sugar levels, and Piccolo stated it developed recipes combining fruits and vegetables. Aldi confirmed plans to relabel its fruit pouches to align with NHS guidelines that advise delaying solid food until six months of age.
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