UNICEF: Infants in Low-Income Countries Consume Processed Foods Containing Sugar

According to a UNICEF report, some infants worldwide have been given processed foods and drinks containing sugar and preservatives before reaching the age of eight months.

Five percent of infants aged 0-1 month consumed processed foods and drinks containing sugar in 2020. This percentage is the highest compared to other age ranges.

Furthermore, processed (instant) baby food was most consumed by infants aged 6-8 months, at 7%. Similarly, processed fruit juice was most consumed by infants aged 6-8 months, at 12%. Meanwhile, sugary drinks were consumed by 2% of infants aged 0-1 months and 4-8 months.

Processed foods and drinks are commonly found in the diets of children in low- and lower-middle-income countries. Consumption of processed foods and drinks containing sugar from infancy can trigger obesity, lethargy, and hyperactivity.

Instant processed baby food can also harm infants because it contains insufficient nutrients, can cause allergies, and can weaken the immune system.

(Read More: 89.55% of Infants in NTB Receive Breast Milk, Highest in Indonesia)