Stellenbosch University researchers have found that many packaged baby foods sold in South Africa contain potentially harmful flavourants. These could negatively impact children’s eating habits and long-term health. Thus, they call for stricter regulation enforcement and re-evaluation of current practices.
The study, published in Maternal & Child Nutrition journal, analysed commercial complementary foods (CCFs) for babies. It focused on those aged six years to 23 months available in supermarkets, pharmacies, and baby stores nationwide. Researchers photographed product labels and contacted manufacturers to create a comprehensive profile of flavourants used in these products.
Their findings reveal widespread use of potentially problematic additives in foods designed for the most vulnerable consumers. “Our study shows that about a third (36,2%) of CCFs contained flavourings. Just over three-quarters (75,9%) of these contained one, and the remainder up to three flavourings,” the researchers reported.
Baby cereals and porridges showed the highest flavouring prevalence. Almost eighty-five percent (84,2%) of baby cereals and porridges contained flavourants. Those in CCFs were primarily of sweet flavours (more than 80%), with vanilla being the most prevalent. Other flavours include caramel, chocolate, honey, and rooibos.
Beyond health concerns, the study exposed misleading marketing practices that could confuse parents. “While all flavouring-containing CCFs indicated flavourings correctly in their ingredient lists,” researchers noted. However, a small percentage of CCF names and/or descriptors were misleading to parents. They implied the products contain certain real ingredients, not just flavourings of these ingredients.”
Particularly concerning was that “more than half (52,4%) of the flavouring-containing products were marketed as suitable for babies six months and older. Almost half (48,6%) of the baby drinks, all labelled as suitable for babies six months and older, contained flavourings.”
The research also revealed widespread regulatory non-compliance. “Just over half (51%) of CCFs complied with all South African labelling regulations relating to flavourings. More than three-quarters (78,3%) violated regulations relating to non-addition claims.” These are statements indicating certain ingredients haven’t been added to products.
The researchers emphasise that enforcement of national regulations is crucial since these explicitly prohibit health, medical, or nutrition claims for infant products. “National regulations play a critical role in safeguarding public health. They ensure that parents and caregivers receive accurate information about the products they buy. Furthermore, they maintain the integrity of infant and child nutrition. Strengthening these regulations and their enforcement would help ensure that infants and young children are provided with safe, nutritious, and appropriately labelled food options.”
Given South Africa’s role as a regional trade gateway, these findings have implications for neighboring African countries. The researchers acknowledge study limitations, including the focus only on foods for six to 23 months rather than up to 36 months. Additionally, manufacturers’ reluctance to share detailed flavouring information was noted.
• Source: Barnard, W; Du Plessis, L; Sigge, G 2025. Profile of Flavourings in Commercial Complementary Foods in South Africa. Maternal & Child Nutrition doi: org/10.1111/mcn.70065
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