Nestlé is facing intense criticism after a Swiss watchdog claimed the company added sugar to Cerelac baby cereals sold across Africa, even though similar products in Europe contain no added sweeteners.
The revelation has sparked a Nestlé Cerelac sugar controversy that many public health groups say was completely unexpected.
The investigation, released by Public Eye on 18 November 2025, alleges that Nestlé violated World Health Organisation guidelines by selling sugar-sweetened cereals to infants under two.
Moreover, the WHO warns against added sugar for toddlers to reduce obesity, dental problems, and early sugar cravings.
Public Eye said Cerelac sold in Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom contains no added sugar, while African versions reportedly include significant amounts.
The findings have drawn swift backlash from civil society groups across the continent.
A coalition of nineteen African organisations sent a letter to Nestlé CEO Philipp Navratil accusing the global brand of applying “double standards.”
Their message stated, “If added sugar is not suitable for Swiss and European children, it is not suitable for children in Africa and beyond.
All babies have an equal right to healthy nutrition, regardless of their nationality or skin color.”
However, Nestlé has rejected all claims. The company told Al Jazeera that the report included “misleading and unfounded allegations.”
A spokesperson added, “We do not have double standards, our approach to nutrition is consistent across all countries.
Nestlé is committed to the wellbeing of children everywhere in the world, and we treat all children equally, irrespective of where they are.”
The company said it offers both sugar-free and sweetened options globally and is working to remove added sugar from all Cerelac lines by the end of 2025.
Furthermore, laboratory tests commissioned by Public Eye appear to challenge Nestlé’s defence.
Tests carried out on nearly one hundred samples from twenty African countries revealed added sugar averaging almost six grams per serving.
Meanwhile, one Kenyan product marketed for babies from six months reportedly contained 7.5 grams of sugar, almost equal to two cubes.
The debate arrives at a difficult moment for Africa. Childhood obesity is rising sharply, even as undernutrition remains common.
In addition, WHO data shows that overweight cases among children under five have almost doubled since 1990.
Health advocates argue that early sugar intake fuels this twin crisis.
Nestlé insists that undernutrition in Africa remains a serious issue and says its food quality standards are not compromised.
But the civil society coalition maintains a firm position. Their letter concluded, “Let us be clear: By adding sugar to infant cereals, Nestlé is deliberately putting the health of African babies at risk for profit. This must end now.”
