A UK health group demands changes in packaging for sugary cereals and yoghurts to protect children.
- Action on Sugar highlights excessive sugar in many breakfast foods marketed for children.
- 47% of cereals and 65% of yoghurts exceed recommended sugar levels for young children.
- Prominent supermarket brands are identified as having the highest sugar levels in child-focused packaging.
- The call for change is backed by concerns over rising child health issues due to sugar consumption.
A UK health group, Action on Sugar, has raised concerns about packaging on breakfast cereals and yoghurts that are high in sugar and appeal to children. Their research suggests that packaging elements such as cartoon characters and bright colours are deliberately used to attract young consumers. This appeal is contrasted with healthier options, which typically feature more subdued packaging styles aimed at an adult audience.
According to Action on Sugar, 47% of cereals and 65% of yoghurts analysed contained at least a third of the maximum recommended sugar intake for children aged four to six per 100g of product. Supermarkets Lidl and Aldi, along with Nestle, were noted for having the highest sugar content in their products with packaging designed to attract children.
Dr Kawther Hashem, the campaign lead at Action on Sugar, expressed her concerns by stating that despite efforts to reduce sugar in many food categories, items with child-oriented packaging still contain unhealthy sugar levels. She emphasised the urgency for companies to eliminate such packaging elements to help combat rising health issues among children, including obesity and tooth decay.
Responding to these critiques, Nestle underscored its ongoing efforts in reformulating its cereal and yoghurt products, claiming significant progress in reducing sugar content. According to the company, 84% of their cereal portfolio is now classified as non-high in fat, salt, and sugar (non-HFSS) by the UK’s nutrient profiling model. Similarly, Aldi reiterated its commitment to decreasing sugar in key food areas affecting children’s diets.
The call for revising packaging practices comes amid broader criticisms from food experts and campaigners, who have condemned UK supermarkets for not sufficiently addressing sugar consumption issues, especially those products enticing young consumers.
The ongoing debate highlights the pressing need for food companies to address sugar content and marketing strategies to improve child health.
