Study finds potentially harmful flavourings in baby foods sold in South Africa

A new Stellenbosch University study has found that many packaged foods marketed for babies and young children in South Africa contain flavourings that could negatively affect children’s eating habits and health. 

Researchers are calling for a review of these additives and stricter enforcement of labelling regulations.

Published in the journal Maternal & Child Nutrition, the study examined the types and prevalence of flavourings in commercial complementary foods (CCFs), which are marketed for babies and toddlers aged six to 23 months. 

Researchers collected data by photographing product labels in supermarkets, pharmacies, and baby stores nationwide and contacting manufacturers for clarification. Most of the products were locally made, with a smaller portion imported.

According to the researchers, from six months onwards, babies should receive nutrient-rich complementary foods alongside breastmilk. However, many CCFs on the market are sweetened and heavily flavoured, encouraging a preference for sugary foods from an early age.

“Our study shows that about a third (36,2%) of CCFs contained flavourings, with just over three-quarters (75,9%) of these containing one and the remainder up to three flavourings,” the researchers reported.

“Almost 85% of baby cereals and porridges contained flavourings. The flavourings in CCFs were primarily of sweet flavours (more than 80%), with vanilla being the most prevalent flavour. Other flavours include caramel, chocolate, honey, and rooibos.”

The team also raised concerns about misleading marketing, saying some product names and labels suggest the inclusion of real ingredients when only flavourings are present.

“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 baby drinks labelled for this age group also contained flavourings,” the report noted.

“This kind of marketing may result in children developing a preference for certain flavours over acceptance of the specific foods.”

The study further found that many products claiming “no added flavourings” actually violated South Africa’s food labelling laws. Only 51% of products complied with all national labelling regulations, while over 78% violated rules related to “non-addition” claims - statements suggesting that a commonly used ingredient was omitted.

Researchers stressed the importance of enforcing national food regulations that protect infants and young children from misleading nutrition claims.

“Regulations play a critical role in safeguarding public health, ensuring parents receive accurate information, and maintaining the integrity of infant and child nutrition,” the study said.

Because South Africa serves as a key trade gateway, the researchers warn that their findings may have implications for neighbouring African countries as well. They also noted that many baby food manufacturers were reluctant to share detailed information about flavourings, highlighting a need for greater transparency in the industry.