Feeding infants is a critical aspect of their development, and parents often seek convenient options like Cerelac, a popular baby food brand. While Cerelac is marketed as a nutritious choice for babies starting from six months, there are significant health risks associated with its consumption, particularly concerning added sugars and nutritional balance.

One of the primary concerns with Cerelac is its high sugar content. Investigations have revealed that many variants of Cerelac contain added sugars, with some products having nearly three grams of sugar per serving. This is particularly alarming when considering that the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that children under two years of age should not consume any added sugars. Excessive sugar intake during infancy can lead to various long- term health issues, including obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Hridish Narayan Chakravarti, a consultant in diabetology and endocrinology, emphasizes that introducing sugary foods too early can negatively affect a child' s developmental trajectory and influence their future food preferences. This early exposure to sweetness can create a preference for sugary foods, leading to poor dietary habits later in life.

Feeding babies Cerelac before they reach the appropriate age can pose several health risks. Pediatricians advise against introducing solid foods before six months due to the following reasons: