A recent investigation by the non-governmental organization (NGO) Public Eye has accused Nestle of employing "double standards" by adding sugar to baby food products specifically tailored for the African market, a practice not observed in equivalent products sold in richer nations like those in Europe. The report, released on Tuesday by the Swiss group, revealed that most samples of Nestle’s Cerelac infant cereals sold in African countries contained added sugar, while identical products in Europe, including Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom, were marketed with zero added sugar for babies from six months onwards.

This alleged practice directly contravenes 2022 guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), which emphatically warns against early exposure to sugar. The WHO states that such exposure can foster a lasting preference for sugary items, thereby contributing significantly to childhood obesity. The stark contrast in product formulations across different regions has drawn widespread criticism.

In an open letter dated November 17, 19 Africa-based civil society organizations expressed strong condemnation, stating that Nestle's actions unequivocally demonstrate "double standards." They urgently demanded that the company immediately cease the distribution of baby products containing added sugar in Africa. The letter underscored a fundamental principle: "If added sugar is not suitable for Swiss and European children, it is not suitable for children in Africa and beyond," asserting that "All babies have an equal right to healthy nutrition – regardless of their nationality or skin color."

In response to these grave allegations, Nestle has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, dismissing Public Eye’s report as containing "misleading and unfounded allegations." A spokesperson for Nestle informed Al Jazeera that the company maintains a consistent approach to nutrition across all countries, refuting claims of double standards. Nestle emphasized its commitment to the wellbeing of children globally, asserting that all children are treated equally, irrespective of their location. The company further clarified that it offers versions of its cereals both with and without added sugar within the same price range in both African and European markets. Nestle also stated its initiative to "accelerate the rollout of no added sugars variants globally," indicating that these options are already available in 97 percent of its markets, including across Africa, with a target to reach 100 percent availability by the end of 2025.